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Art and Design Practice (Fashion) National Diploma level 3

Leicester College

Welford Road, Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 7LW

Other Regulated/Accredited Qualification
Level 3
Arts, Media and Publishing

Available start dates

Available start dates

Monday, 07 September 2026
St Margaret’s Campus
1 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

This is the first year of a two year qualification and is equivalent to 1.5 A Levels. Successful progress can lead to entry onto the second year Extended Diploma (equivalent to 3 A Levels). This exciting course provides students with the opportunity to experience a broad range of subjects that strongly reflect practices used in the fashion industry. It is aimed at people wishing to further their education in the fashion and textiles industry. If you are aged 16 to 18, you will be enrolled on a study programme. This will include retaking GCSEs or undertaking Functional Skills in English and maths if you haven't already achieved a grade 4 or above. You will take part in activities that help you to develop your personal skills, such as building your character and confidence. This will help you to live well and move into your chosen career. If you are 16-19 years old these activities will be timetabled as will work experience and placement. You can also choose to take part in other activities. For other age groups, activities will be tailored to your needs.

Course Details

This course is aimed at people wishing to further their education within the area of fashion and textiles. You will develop skills in a wide range of areas including drawing development, computer-aided design (CAD), pattern cutting and garment manufacture, and fashion design and illustration. You will learn how to design and construct garments and accessories to industrial standards and you will be taught how to use industrial machinery safely. This course is aimed at people wishing to further their education within the area of fashion and textiles. You will develop skills in a wide range of areas including drawing development, computer-aided design (CAD), pattern cutting and garment manufacture, and fashion design and illustration. You will learn how to design and construct garments and accessories to industrial standards and you will be taught how to use industrial machinery safely.

How will it be delivered and assessed?

All units are assessed through practical assignments. You will receive formative assessments and feedback that will inform you of the grade you are working towards. We will set targets that inform you how to improve. There are no examinations or external assessments on this course.

Entry requirements

Vocational L2 Art and Design Diploma - PM grade (Pass/Merit) or X4 GCSE subjects at grade 4 or above to include X1 Design related GCSE subject. Maths and English entry criteria - A Grade 4 or above in either Maths or English (Lit or Lang) or an equivalent functional skill is required. A minimum grade 3 for English Language or equivalent is required providing you have GCSE Maths grade 4 or above or equivalent. Consideration will be given to all applicants over the age of 19 who do not hold formal English and Maths qualifications. A Portfolio review is required to assess and identify suitability for the course. Consideration will be given to all applicants over the age of 19 who do not hold formal English and maths qualifications.

Your next steps...

This level 3 course allows successful students to progress either into the creative arts industry or higher education in graphic design, or a range of allied subject areas. The course equips you to enter the creative industries at a junior level. There will also be an element of simulated work experience through live projects, competitions, and industrial assignments during year two of the course. This is a one year course and successful completion, 90% attendance and a good reference are required in order to progress onto the Extended Diploma second year.

Additional information


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