Student case studies
Lois
Art and Design L3
My course is helping me develop the skills to become a tattoo artist by giving me time to explore different areas of art through independent study and relaxed classes. I am developing a strong portfolio of work that will help me in the future. My next step is to secure a tattoo apprenticeship or progress into higher education.
Sam
HND in Art
Sam studied for her Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design at Bishop Auckland College before progressing onto a Higher National Diploma (HND) qualification, which is worth the same as the first two years of university study. She
specialises in textiles and is now continuing to train at the college as a trainee teacher in Art and Design.
Sam said: “My time at Bishop Auckland College has made me reassess my goals. The arts department has supported me to achieve them, and now I find myself wanting to change my career and be a part of the education system and feel this is the right path for me. I will be volunteering to support other areas within the college to gain experience, and other tutors have said they are more than happy to help me with this.”
What courses could I study?
We have a course at BAC regardless of your previous experience of Art and Design. If you have studied it at GCSE level, you might be able to go directly onto our Level 3 A-Level equivalent course! If not, we have other courses designed to build up your skills first.
Apply Now for September 2024 Start
What facilities would I have access to?
As an Art student at BAC you would have access to a number of studios and creative spaces. This includes digital art studios equipped with the Adobe suite of software including Photoshop and Illustrator. Other studios are equipped
with facilities such as a ceramics kiln, perfect for those looking to express themselves through sculpture! Students wishing to showcase their creativity through photography will also have access to a fully equipped dark room. Other resources
include a traditional printing press and sewing machines for those interested in textiles.
Each year the department organises an art exhibition at a local heritage space in Bishop Auckland town centre where your work would be showcased. You will have the chance to help organise this event as well as attend the opening
night celebration!
Students wishing to can also take advantage of our on-site industry-standard print room which includes large format printers, vinyl cutters, heat presses and the ability to produce commercial goods such as t-shirts, mugs, posters
and banners. Some students have set up small businesses selling their artwork on these products.
What trips could I go on?
Previous student trips have included a visit to Barcelona to take inspiration from sites such as the Sagrada Família. Local trips have included visiting the Sunderland Glass Centre to experience hot glass blowing. Students will also visit a range of local art facilities as they work in partnership with others to produce artwork and installations. More trips are being added each year based on new trends in Art & Design, so you'll be sure to visit unique and interesting places each year!
What careers are there in this area?
Did you know that more than two million people work in creative industries in the UK? That number has increased by a third in 2011!
Find out more about careers in this area by clicking the image below:
