Page 20 - Sixth Form Courses 2026-2028

BTEC LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA (3 A LEVEL EQUIVALENT)
ART AND DESIGN

OVERVIEW If you are passionate about a career in the visual arts, this course could be your
ideal path. The BTEC Extended Diploma, equivalent to three A levels, is designed
for driven, self-motivated individuals and offers an in-depth exploration across fine
art, graphic design, photography, fashion, textiles, illustration, and product design.
It provides the practical skills and comprehensive knowledge needed to excel in an
art and design degree.
This program emphasises independence and creativity, encouraging you to express
your unique perspective and interests through your work. This multidisciplinary
course allows learners to explore and combine a wide range of creative practices,
including drawing, sculpture, fashion, product design, moving image, graphics and
photography. Alongside the practical skills, the course deepens your research and
analytical abilities, guiding you to study the techniques and processes of
professional artists and designers. This dual approach not only broadens your
technical capabilities but also offers meaningful insights that will inspire your
individual artistic response and prepare you for a successful future in the arts.

APPROACH This course is hands-on with a strong vocational focus, offering a dynamic and
personalised experience that encourages you to grow as an independent learner
and express your unique creativity. Through a series of structured projects, you’ll
explore diverse aspects of art and design, learning through guided instruction
phases before progressing to independent assignments crafted to enhance your
artistic skill and originality. In consultation with your teachers, you’ll choose
assignments that allow you to develop a specialised focus, building a portfolio that
aligns with your goals in higher education or future career paths.

A highlight of the program is a study week abroad, where you’ll experience top art
and design places of interest in an international city. Additionally, you’ll be
encouraged to pursue work experience in your areas of interest during holiday
periods, enriching your practical knowledge and industry insight.

COURSE OUTLINE The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design Practice is a two year,
full-time course; equivalent to three A levels and worth up to 168 UCAS points. It
is ideal for students who want to pursue a creative career or progress to university.
The course is 100% coursework based, with no exams, and focuses on developing
a professional portfolio through practical projects, workshops, and creative briefs.
Students are assessed internally across four units, with final grades weighted
towards second-year work to reflect their development.
Teaching is structured around five core areas: informing ideas, problem solving,
technical skills, professional practice, and communication. Students are
encouraged to shape their projects to match their personal interests and
ambitions, resulting in a refined, confident body of work that prepares them for
both industry and higher education.

FURTHER INFORMATION Students wishing to progress into Higher Education would normally have to follow
a one year foundation course before proceeding to a degree course, but BTEC
students are frequently able to make successful applications directly onto a degree
course. Places are limited on this course.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A minimum of 22 points from the student’s best five GCSE/IGCSE/BTEC (or
equivalent) courses or higher are essential for BTEC Art & Design, together with a
portfolio of art/design work.
EXAM BOARD AND Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Art and Design
SPECIFICATION Art and Design (2016) | Pearson qualifications

CONTACT Teacher in charge of BTEC Art
Mrs G Bicknell
bicknell.g@millfieldschool.com

18 MILLFIELD SIXTH FORM 2026-2028