Live Study Days

Two weeks after the self-study module, students attend the first live study day, the next is the following weekend. These are an extension of what you have been learning, students are encouraged to attend as many study days as possible, it is not a requirement to attend all live study days to complete the programme. The teaching takes place during the day on Zoom, it is not recorded. 

*The structure of Module 8 is different and includes tutorials not study days. Appointment times for the individual tutorials will be confirmed at the start of the course.

Foundation Art Forum dates will be added throughout the year to Moodle 1 hour/month.

All work is submitted and assessed online. You will submit an online portfolio that includes coursework, personal work, developmental sketchbook work, and a summary statement of 500 words.

To pass the foundation course you will be required to demonstrate:

• An increased level of skill and competence in core skills evidenced in the portfolio work
• Enquiring and experimental processes towards developing your ideas as evidenced in the sketchbook research and development
• An ability to focus your skills and ideas as evidenced in the final personal project.

At the end of the programme you will have:

• A portfolio of both sketchbook development studies and final artwork, that could be used for entry into higher education.
• Experimented with core skills in a range of mediums and subjects.
• Found resilience and momentum to establish your creativity in your day-to-day life.
• Begun to develop a focus for your arts practice.

While not nationally validated, the learning outcomes are aligned to Level 3 study, and provide you with the necessary preparation and portfolio to make a strong application for study at Level 4, or degree level in Art and Design.

What technologies are used to deliver the course?
The course content is accessed through a course website platform called Moodle.  The live sessions are delivered through Zoom and Microsoft Teams.  The coursework sharing platform is Padlet.

What computer set-up do I need?
The course content can be viewed from a web browser. Whilst it is possible to view this on a tablet device, we recommend that students use a computer with a bigger laptop screen or monitor. The device must have a webcam, microphone, and access to strong and reliable Wi-Fi. Technical support is available if needed.

What web browser do you recommend?
Moodle works best on updated versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. It is responsive and can be accessed on updated computer devices. Moodle apps are not supported for West Dean courses.

Q: What do I do if I experience technical issues?
For any technical issues, students contact [email protected].

Are the live study days held on campus?
All live sessions take place online.  

Are the live study days always on weekends?
Yes. However, the Foundation Art Forum sessions and Module 8 take place on week days.

Are the video modules self-paced?
Yes, videos are released at 9am on a Friday and can be completed in your own time.

Is there additional reading material?
There is a suggested reading is provided for each module, along with a general suggested reading list for the full course. Students are not required to purchase and read each book, these are merely suggested for those interested in taking the particular topics further because they feel inspired to do so.

When do we receive the materials list?
Lists are sent before the course start date with the course notification.

How much time should I dedicate to the course?
At a minimum, 4 days per month: 2 for live study days, 2 days for video coursework. Ideally, 1–2 extra days per month for personal work as this will deepen your learning, confidence, and momentum.

What if I can’t make a live study day?
Live study days are an important part of the course, but we recognize that one or two may be missed due to unforeseen circumstances. It is not possible to record whole live study days, but PowerPoint PDFs used on the day may be available on request if you ask the tutor in advance. Students mostly catch up through shared notes from peers and reviewing posted student work.

What’s the difference between the Certificate (OFCAD) and the Diploma (OFDAD)?
The Certificate (equivalent to Level 3) is the first of the two year online foundation course, it builds foundational art and design skills in set media and topics. The Diploma is the second year (equivalent to Level 3/4) and focuses on further development and application of skills to establish confidence in independent arts practice.  

How do I know if I should apply for the Certificate (OFCAD) or the Diploma (OFDAD)?
If you already have experience across a variety of media including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and have developed a project of your own choice, you may be ready for the Diploma. Otherwise, we recommend you start with the Certificate to build your foundation skills.

What do students go on to do after this course?
Some progress to the Online Foundation Diploma in Art & Design and thereafter the part-time BA (Hons) in Art & Contemporary Craft, while others pursue further short courses, apply to other BAs, or simply continue their personal practice.

When is the deadline to apply?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the available places are filled.

What mediums can I use for the final project?
Students can choose media for the final project having developed skills in using a large range of materials and tools.

How much freedom is there in choosing the subjects of our work?
Some tasks provide specific prompts (e.g. 'three apples' for oil painting), while others let you work from your own images. This balance supports both skill-building and personal expression.

Can I mix this online course with in-person short courses at West Dean?
Providing that students complete the set coursework, they can attend additional courses and add some of that work to their final portfolio.  

Is the work formally assessed?
Students receive a formal written assessment at the end of the course. They also receive feedback through discussion on live study days, and written feedback from two individual course tutorials.

Is the OFCAD graded?
Students receive a written report on the work presented at the end of the course. The grade is pass or fail.

Can I use a College gift voucher towards the course?
Yes, simply enter the gift voucher code at the online checkout.