Level 3 Art and Design

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply - Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide.

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Dover College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College
• EKC Canterbury College
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Do you enjoy experimenting, making and bringing your ideas to life? Then get ready to explore your creativity and discover what kind of artist or designer you could become. Step into the world of art and design and start building the skills to express yourself through a wide range of materials, techniques and creative processes. You’ll explore a range of art and design techniques before focusing on a specialism that suits your interests. As you progress, you’ll begin to shape your own creative identity while building the skills and portfolio needed for your next step. With the creative industries continuing to grow across art, design, media and beyond, this two-year course is the perfect starting point for anyone who has a natural artistic flare or creative mind.

Explore, experiment and push your creativity in new directions as you work across a range of materials, techniques and ideas, building confidence in what you enjoy most. As you step into the studio you’ll be encouraged to take creative risks, develop your own voice and produce work that reflects your interests and ambitions. You will take part in live projects and collaborations with local organisations, giving you real experience and helping you build a strong, industry-ready portfolio. You’ll refine your skills, knowledge and experience in one of three industry-focused specialisms: • Fine Art • Graphic Design and Illustration • Photography During the course you'll work more independently, developing your own ideas and producing work that reflects your personal style and career goals. Work like a creative professional as you respond to briefs, develop ideas through research and bring your concepts to life. You’ll also gain valuable insight into the creative industries through live briefs, employer engagement and work experience opportunities, helping you understand how your skills can translate into real careers.

You’ll build a strong and varied portfolio throughout the course, developing your work across practical projects, sketchbooks and creative assignments. Each project gives you the chance to experiment, refine your ideas and produce work that reflects professional standards.

At the end of each year, you’ll complete a final project, giving you the opportunity to take creative control, develop your personal style and create a body of work that showcases your skills and prepares you for your next step.

To study at Level 3, you will need an average entry score of 5.0 from your best 6 GCSE subjects, ideally including English and Maths. You will also be required to show a portfolio of work when you apply. In instances where little or no portfolio and/or performance experience is shown, we will guide you towards the best course to help you build your portfolio and develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed at higher levels. This study programme is designed to help you move quickly toward advanced jobs, higher education, or apprenticeship opportunities if you know what you want to do next and meet the entry requirements needed for success.

By the end of your course, you’ll be ready to take your next step into the creative industries or continue your studies. This course opens the door to a wide range of creative pathways, including: • Fine Art • Graphic Design • Illustration • Photography • Fashion and Textiles • 3D Design You can progress onto higher education, apprenticeships or specialist creative courses, using the portfolio you’ve built to stand out and secure your place in a competitive and exciting industry. Many of our Level 3 learners have gone on to study or work within the creative sector.