Summary

The UAL Foundation Diploma at Bristol School of Art is an intensive one-year diagnostic course designed to prepare students for undergraduate study. For many students Foundation Diploma provides an effective bridge between school education and specialist undergraduate study in the Creative Industries. We help students to develop an individual creative practice informed by specialist processes and multidisciplinary approaches.

Initially, students are introduced to our four subject areas, Materials + Making, Visual Communication, Fashion + Textiles, and Contemporary Art Practice. Towards the end of the first semester, students chose their specialist pathway. Our pathways are broad and allow for the development of interdisciplinary practice – essential for all careers within the Creative Industries. As the course progresses, students become increasingly confident writing and responding to briefs. To develop strong critical and analytical skills, students have lectures, seminars and drawing workshops on a Monday. This leads to a greater understanding of the symbiotic relationship between theory and practice. A highlight of the year is the Summer Exhibition where we showcase our students’ self-directed projects.

Our Queens Road campus at Bristol School of Art is situated in the historic art school wing of the Royal West of England Academy. This city-centre location provides a wealth of inspiration for our students. We have a range of studio spaces including specialist workshops for sculpture, small-metalwork, woodwork, ceramics, print, fashion + textiles, and drawing.

What do I need to join?

Portfolio Reviews will take place in throughout February'. UAL Foundation Diploma is an oversubscribed course at Queens Road. We offer 108 places on a first come, first served basis.

• A portfolio of work, including a sketchbook, visual and written research, drawing, material experiments, and idea development (to show problem solving).
• Maths and English GCSE at grade 4 or above. Certificates must be brought to Portfolio Review sessions.
• Successful completion of 1 A-Level or L3 equivalent.

Queens Road campus has no parking for students but it is accessible through many bus routes; there is also no canteen at the campus

Maths & English

A key requirement for obtaining many jobs is to achieve a good standard of English and Maths. Therefore, learners that do not yet have a GCSE grade 4 (C) will be enrolled on either a GCSE or functional skills programme alongside their course.

Work Experience

A key component of all Programmes is that learners will undertake a Work Placement. This is crucial as it allows learners to prctice new knowledge, skills and behaviours in an employment setting. Learners will receive help in securing their Work Placement through our Work Placement Team here at SGS, who will work with employers to ensure that all relevant Health & Safety, relevant insurances and safeguarding measures are in place.

What can I do next?

Learners can progress into higher education, apprenticeships and internships within the creative industries.