Online Fine Art Course for SEND Students

OCAD offers the SEND online Level 3 Diploma in Fine Art, a specialised art course designed specifically for SEND students. This unique program provides tailored support and resources to cater to the individual needs of SEND learners. Unlike a standard foundation course, the SEND art course at OCAD includes a dedicated SENDCO, increased tutor time, bespoke learning materials, progress reports, and online meetings with local authorities.

The SEND art course is a one-year, three-stage program that can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. It is ideal for serious, career-oriented students who aspire to become artists or designers. Throughout this stimulating and transformative course, students develop practical skills, gain knowledge and understanding of diverse cultures, design, and design theory, and explore the ever-evolving dynamics of the art industry.

Successful graduates of the SEND art course earn a nationally accredited Foundation Diploma qualification, equivalent to 2 or 3 A Levels, depending on their final grade. This qualification is recognized by SEG ABC Awards, one of the largest vocational awarding bodies in the UK.

OCAD's SEND art course is recognized by most local authorities in the UK and can be added as a named provider to EHCPs. We also offer a course extension for those who require an extended duration of study.

Overall, the SEND art course at OCAD provides SEND students with a comprehensive and supportive learning experience, empowering them to pursue their artistic aspirations and thrive in the creative industry.

Entry Requirements: 16 years or over, 5 GCSEs / IGCSEs including Maths, English and an Art or Photography-related subject linked to an appropriate portfolio (or equivalent international qualifications). Mature students require no exam qualifications, but some ability to draw and paint and a desire to succeed are required. Send an example of your work if unsure of your level.
Part-time programmes (2 years): available all year around – enroling now
Full-time programmes (1 year): start December to January and September to October. Exceptions may apply.
Requirements: Computer with broadband connection / basic art materials
Progression: to any University / BA Honours Degree
Accreditation: SEG ABC Awards
OFQUAL Regulated: Yes (Ofqual number 500/8476/8)
UCAS Tarif: up to 112 points – equivalent to two A Levels at A* grade – university entry requires 80 -100 UCAS points
UCAS application supported: Yes
Portfolio support: Yes
Tuition: Face to face, one to one – unlimited

Level 3 or Level 4?

The qualification that students will receive is a Level 3 Diploma. Level 3 qualifications are FE (further education) and prepare for University. LEAs fund students up to this level and the qualification carries UCAS points for entry into HE (higher education).

There is a final graded unit which is actually a Level 4 unit, which helps students prepare for HE, as it gives experience at this slightly higher level. This unit shows on your transcript for the qualification (the sheet that breaks down all units, credits and grade) as a Level 4 unit. However, the qualification is awarded as a Level 3 qualification overall.

The exam board do offer a Level 4 foundation diploma, but it does not carry any UCAS points whatsoever, so it is unlikely to be useful to any of our students. (This is because Level 4 is seen as HE and not FE.) If students want to go for a Level 4 version of the course, they can, but this is to be discussed once enrolled, as it will mean no UCAS points! The degree that students go on to study will be level 4+, so there is no need to gain a Level 4 qualification at this stage.

Students enrolled in the course gain access to their own dedicated online studio, providing a convenient platform to navigate their studies. The online studio features a comprehensive listing of course units and assignments, accompanied by a wealth of supporting resources. These resources include video tutorials for skill development, step-by-step guides, and various other helpful materials.

To facilitate the assessment process, students have the opportunity to upload photographs of their completed work to their college e-portfolio. This allows for a thorough evaluation and the provision of constructive, friendly written feedback on areas for improvement and progression.

In addition, students are encouraged to engage in personal discussions with their experienced and qualified personal tutor. These conversations provide valuable face-to-face verbal feedback, as well as encouragement and support to enhance their artistic journey.

Furthermore, students have the option to interact with their fellow online peers, fostering meaningful relationships within the creative community. By accessing profiles and providing comments on each other's artwork, students can benefit from the collaborative and supportive environment.

The course comprises three distinct stages; Exploratory stage, Pathway stage and finally Confirmatory stage. Each stage is 12 to 24 weeks in duration depending on whether you study full-time or part-time. These can be extended if required.

The Exploratory stage is the first stage of the course and as the title suggests it gives you the opportunity to understand at a deeper level what art and design is and to experience working in a number of disciplines. Within each discipline you will use a range of materials and processes and learn the value of drawing and photography as a starting point.

You are offered 5 projects from which you study 3.

Photography (mandatory)
Fine Art
Graphic Design and Illustration
3D (Architecture, 3d Design, Sculpture)
Fashion and Textiles

The Pathway stage is where you choose which pathway/discipline you wish to explore further and at a greater depth. Your tutors will review with you your work from the exploratory phase and this will inform your decision. The final decision is of course yours.

The Confirmatory stage is the final stage of the foundation diploma and the only stage that will decide your final grade. You will be asked to write a statement of intent with the support of your tutor. This document will outline your chosen final major project.Your final major project is practical and can be in any form you choose; showreel, a dress, a series of photographs, a painting, an animation, a design for an interior, architectural design, a video game etc.