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GCSE (9-1) in Art and Design

at Varndean College, Brighton · college

Level 2Stepping stonesGCSE12 monthsFull timeFree

What the college says

Learn how to design logos, posters and packaging and understand how designers create the brands you love. Graphic Design is about creative problem solving and communicating ideas using the layout of images and text. Your Graphic Design lessons will blend Art skills with Digital skills and you’ll be exploring Adobe Photoshop as well as experimenting with printmaking, illustration and collage techniques. You’ll be set ‘client briefs’ and learn about the stages a designer goes through to realise exciting and successful work. You might be asked to create a logo and packaging for a new fast-food brand or to create digital illustrations for a fashion magazine. You’ll learn about key design movements, influential graphic designers and take inspiration from street artists. The coursework projects prepare you to tackle any design challenge with creativity and confidence and in the exam project at the end of the course, you get a choice of themes, a period of preparation and then a 10-hour practical exam to create your chosen design work. You don’t need any previous experience of Graphic Design to join this course but if you have existing interest/skills/qualifications in art or digital design that will help get you off to a great start.

What you need to get on

Standard Foundation Level entry requirements Plus: Grade 3 in GCSE Art, Graphics, Photography or Textiles (if taken)

How you are assessed

Entry level and Level 1 study, English and maths retakes, and supported programmes.

What this level means

The GCSE-equivalent step, and the usual route into Level 3.

Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?

Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.

Where it runs

  • VARNDEAN COLLEGE

    Surrenden Road, Brighton, BN1 6WQ

    DaytimeClassroom based
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Start dates

  • 7 September 2026 · Brighton

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