The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice in Graphic Design will teach you the core purpose and principles of graphic design that will allow you to tell a visual story and make complex information easier for your audience to understand.

There will be an opportunity to work on a range of graphic design briefs which can lead you into an exciting range of careers.

The course will include a live project, enabling you to work with ethical brands or community initiatives. This industry engagement, combined with developing a professional portfolio, supports current industry practice and will support you into university.

This is a 2 year study programme scheduled over 3 days per week and will be a mixture of theory, practical and online lessons.

Study Mode Full Time
Suitable for 16-18
Duration 36 weeks

Apply Online Enquire

Sector Overview

The UK's Creative Industries boast a range of interesting and exciting careers for those looking to enter a thriving and innovative sector, with opportunities ranging from jobs involved with arts, culture and design to working in video gaming or the media.
The Creative Industries bring together a range of sub-sectors involved with economic activities that all have creativity at their centre. From fashion, crafts and visual arts to music, publishing, TV, radio and film, these are all part of what's known as the UK's Creative Economy.
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for this course are:
- 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above including English and maths, or Merit in a relevant Level 2 qualification
- Portfolio of Work (including evidence of traditional drawing skills)
- Interview and Assessment
What will I study?
This is an exciting course where you will work on inspirational projects which include many approaches to graphic design.
There are live briefs set by industry professionals and workshops which will teach you a wide range of graphic design skills, allowing you to explore many pathways within the specialism.
Year 1 (Diploma)
Unit 1 – The Creative Process
- Learn the basics of visual communication through colour, layout, typography and imagery.
- Experiment, research and develop creative ideas.
Unit 2 – Developing Creative Practice
- Build core graphic design skills in digital software, photography, illustration and typography.
- Improve drawing, creative thinking and design production skills.
Unit 3 – Responding to a Set Brief
- Apply your skills to real project briefs and competitions.
- Create work for specific audiences and present your design decisions with confidence.
Year 2 (Extended Diploma)
Unit 4 – Researching a Specialist Industry Practice
- Explore specialist areas such as branding, UI/UX, editorial design, advertising or motion graphics.
- Gain insight into industry workflows and design trends.
Unit 5 – Specialist Technical Skills Development
- Refine your design techniques through research, testing and practical development.
Unit 6 – Specialist Creative Outcome
- Produce a final graphic design project based on a live brief from a studio, HE provider or community group (TBC).
- Build a professional portfolio piece supported by strong research and experimentation.
Through tutorial sessions, you will be supported to enhance wider employability skills including project management, teamwork, research, communication and presentation skills alongside your time management.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed via:
- Project based assignment briefs
- Final Major Project
Enrichment

To further enhance your progression, you will be involved in taking part in trips and visits to relevant museums and exhibitions such as the Design Museum in Kensington. You will be encouraged to go on location research trips to enhance your practical work and knowledge of the subject.
You will also have access to key employers that will deliver guest lectures to build your industry knowledge and contacts.
All students are involved in setting up and exhibiting at the end of year exhibition.
Work Experience

You must complete 36 hours (1 week) of external work placement which is an essential part of the programme ands ome of the opportunities can include placements with employers such as Amazon, Framestore and Mbilla Arts.
You will also have access to our Student Common Room, a great place to unwind and relax during your breaks. It features pool tables, a gaming corner and lots of comfy sofas so you can refresh before your next lesson.
Progression Opportunities
The completion of this course will allow you to progress onto:
- Employment
- University
- Apprenticeship
Employment opportunities can include:
- Graphic Design
- UI/UX Design
- Motion Graphics Design
- Brand Identity Design
- Packaging Design
- Editorial Design
- Creative Technology (AR, VR)
- Data Visualisation Design
University Degree courses could include:
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Printmaking
- Graphic Arts
- Computer Games Design
- Animation
- Interactive Media
Alumni

Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational college and will support you to reach your career aspirations. Last year 96% of Study Programme learners progressed onto a positive destination either to higher levels of study, employment, or an Apprenticeship.