View the full time courses on offer at HSDC Alton for 2023/2024.
DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE WITH ALTON COLLEGE
FULL TIME PROSPECTUS 2023/2024
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HSDC Alton | Old Odiham Road, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 2LX | 01420 592200
CONTENTS Welcome
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Course types & entry requirements Courses Business, Law & Economics Creative Industries English & Languages Health & Social Care, Early Years & Teaching Humanities & Social Sciences Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Sport & Public Services Vocational & Foundation Learning Everything else you need to know
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“Leaders and managers have a clear rationale for the courses they offer. They have developed strong links with the local community that help them to understand local priorities” OFSTED 2020
WELCOME TO ALTON COLLEGE
Hello and welcome to HSDC Alton College, one of the three campuses which make up the HSDC family. Whatever your education goals, we have a course to fit your career aspirations. We provide an inspiring and outstanding bridge between school and Higher Education, Apprenticeships or employment. Students come to Alton because of our reputation for excellence. We are constantly exceeding the national average in qualifications and provide excellent preparation for our students’ future ambitions. We are very proud of our A Level Centre of Excellence at Alton as well as our extensive range of professional & technical courses and Apprenticeships. Our broad and inclusive curriculum means we are confident you will be able to fulfill your dreams and career aspirations by studying with us. Our students go on to success in a variety of fields, including progression onto prestigious courses at high-ranking universities. We believe this success is down to our focus on industry insights, with HSDC Alton students learning from teaching staff who have first hand knowledge from their own industry experience. We are also investing in our facilities to make sure our students are ready for their future, including our fantastic £1.25m Gaming & Creative Digital Studios.
We are very proud to offer a range of T Levels, with new courses being added each academic year. These qualifications are the ‘gold standard’ for preparing the next generation of young professionals for truly outstanding careers. Don’t forget to take a look at our Aspire programme for gifted and talented students. It has been designed to ensure students maximise their potential and to get you ready to apply to competitive courses at university, including Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities. We’ll help and support you to achieve your goals, whatever they might be. We look forward to meeting you and to welcoming you to the Alton community.
Mike Gaston Principal and CEO HSDC
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COURSE TYPES AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
When picking a course you may want to think about: • What subjects do you enjoy? • What subjects are you good at? • Do you prefer hands-on or classroom-based learning? • Are you happier doing exams or coursework? • How much work experience do you want? • What’s your end goal?
DIFFERENT COURSE TYPES
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A LEVELS
These are ideal if you want to study more than one subject. You can pick three different subjects that are taught alongside each other over a two-year period. A Levels are taught in a classroom environment and are assessed through examination at the end of two years - ideal if you can work under pressure and enjoy wider reading and independent study to extend your learning in lessons. Some A Levels have a 20% coursework element such as an extended essay on a theme of your choice, or it could be a practical project with critical analysis supporting it. Science A Levels have a practical assessment conducted throughout the course in addition to the final examinations. Lessons will build on what you learnt at GCSE, but there are lots of subjects beyond the school curriculum. Many of these new subjects such T LEVELS T Levels split learning between 80% in the classroom and 20% on placement. You’ll have approximately 315 hours of industrial placement spread over the two years of your course. This gives you more time in a working environment than an A Level or Vocational course would, but more direct teaching time than you’d receive with an Apprenticeship.
as Law, Economics, Politics and Philosophy are popular choices to study at university. Traditional subjects such as the sciences, Maths and Geography open up so many opportunities - either for undergraduate study or employment. General entry requirements for A Levels are five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Mathematics. However, certain subjects may have specific entry requirements.
We offer T Levels in the following pathways: • DESIGN SURVEYING & PLANNING FOR CONSTRUCTION • BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT • DESIGN, SURVEYING & PLANNING FOR CONSTRUCTION • MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION • MEDIA CONTENT CREATION & PRODUCTION • EDUCATION & CHILDCARE • HEALTH & NURSING • ANIMAL CARE & MANAGEMENT • BIOMEDICAL & HEALTHCARE SCIENCE • DIGITAL PRODUCTION, DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT • ENGINEERING, DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT (MECHANICAL & ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING) • MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATION & REPAIR (LIGHT & ELECTRIC VEHICLES) T Level qualifications are equivalent to three A Levels, so they have the same entry requirements: five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language and Mathematics.
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VOCATIONAL
ENTRY LEVEL An Entry Level Vocational course has no formal entry requirements and is ideal for you if you want to learn Vocational skills whilst developing your English and Mathematics. LEVEL 1 The Level 1 Vocational qualification is the equivalent to GCSE grades 3-1. Entry requirements for a Level 1 Vocational course is a pass at Entry Level, or GCSE grades 2 or above. LEVEL 2 A Merit at Level 2 is equivalent to four GCSEs at grade 4. In order to apply for one of our Level 2 Vocational courses you will need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 3 or above, or a pass in a related subject with a grade 3 in English Language and Mathematics. LEVEL 3 Level 3 Diplomas are equivalent to A Levels. Extended Diplomas are the equivalent to three A Levels and Single Diplomas are the equivalent to one A Level. You can combine Single Diplomas with other Single Diplomas or A Levels. Entry requirements for our Level 3 Vocational courses are a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above or a Merit in a Level 2 Vocational qualification in a related subject alongside GCSEs at grade 4 or above in English Language and Mathematics.
Vocational courses are not only great for hands-on learners, they’re also highly respected by universities and employers. A Vocational course will allow you to specialise in one subject, concentrating on teaching you practical skills. If you already know what sector you’d like to work in, you can get used to using industry-standard equipment you may come across in the workplace. Vocational courses are available at a range of levels so you can be confident that you’ll find a course to suit your abilities. CHOOSING A COURSE PROGRAMME THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU At HSDC Alton you can choose a mixed programme of exam and coursework-based subjects to suit your particular learning style. Some students thrive with timed formal exams and others find success with coursework or assignment-based assessment. GCSE GCSE English and Mathematics are important qualifications. If you didn’t manage to get a grade 4 in either of these subjects at GCSE you’ll need to study these as part of your main study programme.
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5 REASONS TO CHOOSE ALTON COLLEGE ACCORDING TO OUR STUDENTS
WHAT’S IT REALLY LIKE AT HSDC ALTON? Students share their top five things about student life:
1. TEACHERS
Not only do they have all the knowledge you’ll need to get through your course, but they are also engaging, helpful, and willing to go the extra mile to help you succeed. From helping you apply to UCAS to just explaining something to you again, your teachers will honestly be the most academically valuable people you will encounter at College.
2. FACILITIES
There are so many facilities for you to use. Make the most of an early start by grabbing a Starbucks or breakfast wrap and meeting friends before your first lesson, or use a long break to get your work done in the Learning Hub. Whatever you choose to do with your time at Alton, the facilities you need will be provided for you.
3. SUPPORT
You will have the best support network, from teachers to friends, and the Health & Wellbeing team, you won’t feel alone. Sixth form/ Further Education can be stressful sometimes, but any support you need will be given to you, which is just great!
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4. LESSONS
Lessons are arguably the best thing about being at HSDC because it is your opportunity to gain insight into the subjects you have chosen to study. Teachers genuinely do their utmost to make lessons engaging, innovative and interesting, using several different methods to help get the main points across.
5. FRIENDS
You may think that starting College is a scary experience; you may even worry that you won’t make friends – but this is far from the truth. If anything, the friends you make at College and the bonds you form are so much stronger than the ones you develop at school. You meet people who you have so much more in common with, either because they have a similar work ethic to you, because you have a related career goal, or just because you have the same interests. Spending time with your friends at College honestly makes your time there so much more worthwhile and enjoyable.
“There are so many awesome things about being a student at HSDC; things that, after a few weeks (or after a year!) you tend to take for granted. College is such a great experience, regardless of the course you are on – so here are the five best things about being enrolled here.”
Kate Whetton Previous student
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BUSINESS, LAW AND ECONOMICS
With the opportunity to study Business, Law and Economics you will be able to get to grips with some of the most important concepts and mechanisms that make our modern world what it is. As well as looking impressive on your CV, these highly respected qualifications can open doors to top universities and very well-paid careers. If you have a critical and enquiring mind, these courses are for you!
SECTOR FACTS
AVERAGE SALARY IN THE LOCAL AREA £42,100
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BUSINESS A Level Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Teaching & Learning Most lessons are classroom-based though we use laptops, IT suites and your mobile phones to do research tasks. You will look at case studies of popular companies to practise analysis and evaluation skills which are essential for answering exam questions. You will use Google Classroom to share work, interact with your fellow students and do online knowledge checks. HSDC Alton has experienced staff who are familiar with exam board mark schemes; this allows a focus on essay techniques to maximise your marks. Assessment – 100% exam. – Three 2-hour exams taken in your final year; multiple choice questions, short answer questions and unseen case studies with essay-style questions. Progression Past students on this course successfully progress into employment or onto degree courses such as Business Studies, Business Management, Marketing, Human Resources, Accounting, Business Enterprise and Management Studies, as well as a range of combined degree subjects. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (including English and Mathematics). It is not necessary to have studied Business at GCSE to take A Level.
Overview Do you watch TV and social media adverts and question what they are trying to achieve? See young entrepreneurs worth millions and wonder how they did it? Do you marvel when your boss makes changes in your part time job which motivates the staff to work harder? And do you admire the great business leaders like James Dyson, Levi Roots and Deliciously Ella? Then you might enjoy Business A Level. Business reaches into all our lives and we explore the not-for-profit organisations like the BBC and charities, as well as the successful (and not- so-successful) companies that you have heard of like Apple and Nike. We explore ethics and how businesses are adapting to environmental pressures and political and economic changes. You will also learn how businesses make a profit, of course. Structure: All Business courses at college or university study the four main functional areas below which you will cover in Year 1: – What makes a great leader? How do you motivate staff to work harder? (Human Resources) – What is the best way to target customers to buy a product? (Marketing) – What is the difference between cash flow and profit? (Finance) – How do fast food restaurants maximise efficiency? (Operation) In Year 2 we look at more strategic issues like if companies should launch new products and into which markets, how big a role should ethics and environmental concerns play in decisions and how do investors decide which companies are going to succeed?
Courses | HSDC Prospectus 11
BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT T Level (=3 A Levels)
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
– Finance Financial reporting such as turnover and profit and loss. – Policies and procedures How and why organisations develop Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), how they are measured and their impact on individuals’ roles. – Project and change management Why organisations need to make continuous improvements and innovations. – Business behaviours The importance of good communication and adapting social communication styles to professional standards and according to purpose, medium and audience. In Year 2 you will potentially have the choice of which Occupational Specialism you study, and these will be specialist units to develop specific knowledge and skills in either: – Team Leadership/Management or Business Improvement Teaching & Learning You will be taught on campus four days a week with a full-time programme of lessons in our Business rooms. We provide the specialist knowledge and industry expertise to prepare you for employment with some of the best companies and employers. On the course you will also work with our partner employers, each one a leader in their field, who will help you apply the theory and skills learnt in college to real industry applications. Assessment You will be assessed through an exam, industrial placement, work-based project and synoptic assessment. Progression On completion of the Business and Management T Level, you could secure jobs such as team leader, supervisor or business improvement co- ordinator. Entry Requirements Grade 4 or above in English Language GCSE, grade 4 or above in Mathematics GCSE and three additional GCSEs at grade 4 or above.
Overview Business & Management has a hand in running nearly everything you consume within your daily lives. This course will allow you to develop an understanding of Business & Management disciplines and prepares you for working in this exciting industry. Your lessons will take place in our high spec Business classrooms with access to the latest industry software. You will spend time in the classroom, learning basic principles and theory, and in the process develop your professional and technical skills. You will also spend a minimum of 45 days on an Industrial Placement where you will work closely with a leading employer either every week or on a block placement to help you develop the right knowledge, technical skills and professional behaviours for working in this ever-evolving sector. This course ensures you can rival all students with a unique blend of both academic and industry experience with a work placement giving you the real-world skills you require for future employment. Structure This Business & Management T Level includes the following core units: – Business Context The different types of organisations (e.g. private, public and not-for-profit) and the environments in which they operate both nationally and globally. – People The ways in which different types of organisations ensure that they have the right people to meet their business aims including through deploying different recruitment channels and employment contracts. – Quality and Compliance The importance of maintaining and improving quality in all aspects of public and private sector organisations.
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BUSINESS Level 2 Cambridge Technical Diploma
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 1 year
Structure – Business Purposes – Business Organisations – Financial Forecasting for Business – People in Organisations – The Marketing Plan – Verbal and Non-verbal Communication in Business Contexts – Training and Employment in Business – Personal Selling in Business – Customer Relations in Business – Business Online Teaching & Learning The teaching team will employ a variety of teaching and learning strategies, including teacher input, group discussions, visits, presentations and hands-on use of computers. Developing practical skills in customer service, problem-solving, leadership and teamwork. An entrepreneurial mindset is at the core of our courses. Assessment All units are assessed and graded internally by lecturers. The assessments include reports, events, role plays and the production of other written documents. Progression Completion of this course with a Merit grade will allow you to progress onto any relevant T Level, or other Level 3 course. This gives learners the potential opportunity to progress to employment, or progress within employment in a wide range of job roles across the business sector. Entry Requirements You will need to have attained a GCSE grade 3 profile or equivalent. A discussion will take place during interview to ensure that this course is appropriate to your needs. You must have a good level of English and Maths.
Overview On this course, you will follow a balanced programme of study that develops knowledge, skills and understanding in all areas of business. There will be opportunities for the development of transferable skills related to study and to the real business sector, aiming to give you the opportunity to progress to employment or progress within employment in a wide range of job roles across the business sector.
Courses | HSDC Prospectus 13
DESIGN, SURVEYING & PLANNING FOR CONSTRUCTION T Level (=3 A Levels)
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
– Digital technology including digital engineering techniques, opportunities for the use and adaptation of technology – Business and commerce including business structures, values and objectives, corporate social responsibility, entrepreneurship and innovation, principles of project management, quantification and costing Specialist Units You will complete one occupation-specific module, this part of the T Level ensures that you’ll develop the knowledge and skills needed to work in specific occupations. The specialism topic for Year 2: Surveying and Design for Construction and the Built Environment. Assessment You will be assessed through two exams, industrial placement, employer-set project and an occupational specialism project. Progression You could progress onto an Apprenticeship, study a university degree or start full time employment. Entry Requirements You will need a grade 5 in Mathematics (higher paper), a grade 5 in Science (Physics or double award), a grade 4 in English Language and a grade 4 in two further subjects.
Overview This two-year course has been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses to meet the needs of the industry and prepare you for the world of work. Employers involved in designing the T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning include the Morgan Sindall Group and Skanska UK.
Structure Core Units
– Supporting knowledge including health and safety, information and data capture, scientific principles and their application in the built environment and standards for scientific measurement – Principles of design in the built environment, roles of different disciplines, design process from conception to completion and life-cycle assessment – Structure of the construction industry, integration of the supply chain, how projects are procured and managed and current/future factors impacting the industry – Importance of sustainability, environmental legislation, policies and initiatives, principles of heritage and conservation, lean construction and waste management, energy production and use – Building technology including construction methods, forms of construction, regulations and standards and manufacturers’ instructions – Relationship management including types of stakeholder, customer service principles, the importance of teamwork, equality, diversity and representation including related legislation, employment rights and responsibilities
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ECONOMICS A Level
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Teaching & Learning: You will encounter a variety of teaching techniques in class. There will be a certain amount of formal teaching plus opportunities for you to work individually or in groups. You will also develop your verbal skills by preparing presentations for the rest of the class. Videos and newspaper articles will be used as sources for research and class discussions, with the aim of linking economic theory to current issues. Assessment 100% exam - Paper one: Microeconomics, Paper two: Macroeconomics, Paper three: Theme paper. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4. You should have at least grade 5 in GCSE English. It is not necessary to have studied Economics at GCSE.
Overview If you have a passionate interest in current news stories regarding economic issues and are interested in how they affect you, then Economics is the course for you. You will study microeconomics; you will learn to understand the actions of governments, individual firms and consumers. For example, have you ever wondered why the price of an Apple iPhone has increased? Or why governments continue to increase the price of a packet of cigarettes and why consumers will continue to buy them? Have you ever watched the news and heard a story about the rate of inflation falling, or GDP rising and not understood? By studying macroeconomics, you will gain an insight into how the economy is managed. This will include looking at how a change of inflation, national income, unemployment and international trade affect you. You will also gain knowledge in how to manage the economy by using monetary, fiscal and supply-side policies. Structure – Microeconomics: this unit looks at the supply and demand of both goods and labour. Have you ever wondered why the price of a Freddo bar keeps increasing? Have you ever wondered why Gareth Bale earns in just seven days what many of his fans will earn in an entire decade? – Macroeconomics: this unit looks macroeconomic issues, such as inflation, unemployment, exports and imports and how these indicators affect the UK – Do you want to know how much influence the financial sector has on the UK economy? What is the role of the Bank of England? Is the HS2 a waste of resources? How much does the country owe and who do we owe the money to? – You will also play the role of the government. Should the NHS be privatised? Should the government put a minimum price on alcohol?
Courses | HSDC Prospectus 15
FINANCIAL STUDIES Certificate/Diploma Level 3 (= 1 A Level)
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Assessment: Each unit is examined externally through a multiple choice question exam and an exam based on a pre-release case study. Progression: This course has equal status with other A Level courses for entry into Higher Education and is worth UCAS points. The course can also help with entry into careers such as insurance, banking, administration and the voluntary sector. Entry Requirements: Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and Mathematics. No prior knowledge of Financial Studies is required.
Overview This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to make informed and sensible financial decisions and have an understanding of the role of larger financial organisations. Furthermore, your studies within this course will give you the tools to effectively plan your personal finances, as well as explore the socio-economic trends which impact on individual financial circumstances. Your core skills will be developed over the duration of this course, focusing on improving independent thinking, critical analysis, evaluation and verbal and written communication. This course will set you up for careers in banking, insurance, administration, voluntary work and many others, as well as awarding you with A Level equivalent UCAS points for entry to university or an Apprenticeship. This course will give you a Certificate or Diploma (depending on which units are taken). Structure: You will cover the following units: – Financial Capability for the Immediate and Short Term – Financial Capability for the Medium and Long Term – Sustainability of an Individual’s Finances – Sustainability of the Financial Services System Teaching & Learning: Taught mainly in a classroom environment through the use of worksheets, booklets and past papers. Dynamic use of IT and appropriate visits and guest speakers.
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LAW A Level
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
– Law of Contract: Understand what is required to make an agreement legally enforceable and what steps can be taken if someone fails to keep their side of a bargain. Could you write a contract on a dead fish? Teaching & Learning You will learn in lots of different ways: through problem-solving, teacher-led discussion, quizzes and other activities. Learning will involve you working individually in small and medium-sized groups, in which you will debate and share ideas. There will also be visits to courts and Parliament and talks from law professionals, plus the opportunity for you to take part in a mock trial and to access an extensive computer package offering lectures, cases and links to important legal resources. Through this approach you will gain valuable employability skills, which will help you with further studies in the future and in any chosen career. Assessment 100% exam (three exam papers). Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English at grade 5 or above and Mathematics at grade 4 or above.
Overview Law has a significant influence on our daily lives and is a factor in many news items, films and TV programmes. When studying Law A Level, you’ll learn how it’s made and how the court system works. We will consider the nature of justice, and whether law and morality are the same. You will be able to identify criminal offences, such as murder and robbery, and criminal defences, including self-defence. Also, you’ll learn about the civil law topics of tort and contract, which will give you the opportunity to draft a legal agreement. We aim to develop your skills of analysis and evaluation in a variety of ways – through problem-solving, discussion and essay writing. There are also opportunities to visit a Crown Court and the Houses of Parliament and to take part in a Bar Mock Trial competition. If you have a critical and enquiring mind, this course is for you! Structure On this full time A Level course, you will study the following: – The Nature of the English Legal System: Understand how law is made and the role law plays in society, including how a case is taken to court. We will also consider the extent to which law achieves justice and whether law and morality are the same. – Criminal Law: Includes analysis of the non-fatal offences like assault and grievous bodily harm, and the fatal offences of murder and manslaughter, plus property offences such as robbery. – Tort: This is an area of Civil Law governing accidents and damage. You will be exploring the principles concerning negligence and other civil wrongs.
Courses | HSDC Prospectus 17
CREATIVE INDUSTRIES
Everything we use has been designed and made by someone. Studying Creative Industries is all about nurturing your talent to produce something extraordinary. Within this practical and creative area you can benefit from all the help, support and facilities you need to grow and ultimately flourish alongside like‑minded people. As a creative, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. SECTOR FACTS
AVERAGE SALARY IN THE LOCAL AREA £40,609
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3D DESIGN A Level
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Teaching & Learning All lessons are undertaken in a large and modern purpose-built ‘design and make’ space, where you can move from designing to making when you are ready. Everything from a modern CAD suite, layout space, workbenches and traditional and modern machinery is all combined in the one space. This is successful because combined with integrated extraction are ceiling-mounted air filtration units and a downdraught (dust catching) workbench that retain high standards of air quality at all times. You will be encouraged to develop independence in both thought and action, but staff are extensively available to support you with your work when you need more time or another opinion. Learning is achieved through project work and topic-based activities. Projects help you to gain confidence, design capability and practical skills and allow you to focus on your interests. Assessment 50% course work: Design project 30% exam: Materials and Manufacturing 20% exam: Social, Moral, Environmental and Economic Issues Associated with Design Progression Students who successfully complete this course can, and have, moved onto Higher Education or into employment along the following design- based routes: product designer, industrial designer, product engineer, model-maker, craft- worker, production designer, draughtsperson, CAD operator, interior architect, architect, technologist, ergonomist etc. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4. In addition you must have a GCSE grade 5 or above in a creative or technical subject and a GCSE grade 4 or above in Mathematics.
Overview This course is intended to provide you with the skills and knowledge to be successful when applying for ‘three dimensional’ design-based employment or degree courses e.g. Product Design, Industrial Design, Modelmaking, Craft, Furniture etc. But because the course is creative, technical and both practical and academic, it has also proved to be an excellent foundation for students with artistic, architectural or engineering intentions. Designing uses a highly diverse set of skills and on this course, you will: research, analyse, summarise, define, plan, develop, prove, calculate, communicate, process, fabricate, test, evaluate and modify. When you have completed this course, you will have a digital portfolio as evidence of your broad skill set and management capability. Structure Year 1 – Project: To design and prototype a ‘unique yet appropriate’ product for an identified group of users. In this project you will study how people interact with products, then you will draw up concepts, use CAD to communicate and simulate products, and model and prototype the parts of a proposal. – Study: You will test material properties then learn about forming, joining and finishing processes for a range of materials e.g. casting, welding, plasma cutting, routing, milling, 3D printing etc. Year 2 – Project: To design and prototype a product, or space, for an identified client or group of users. In this project, you will analyse situations and plan a project, generate and develop solutions, produce a one-off or prototype and then test its feasibility. – Study: You will gain an understanding of the range of constraints, influences and opportunities that impact the work of designers e.g. culture and society, industrialisation, sustainability, new technologies, human characteristics etc.
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ART & DESIGN (PRE-DEGREE) UAL Foundation Diploma Level 3/Level 4
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 1 year
The course concludes with a Level 4 Final Major Project in which you choose and investigate a creative topic that fits in with your skills and progression ambitions, with a private view and public exhibition. Teaching & Learning: You will take part in group discussions and analysis of your own work and that of others. Investigations into historical and contemporary artists and designers are integrated into practical project work. There will be opportunities to take part in day trips to visit exhibitions, as well as overseas locations. Previous destinations have included New York, Iceland, San Francisco, Beijing and St Petersburg. Assessment 100% coursework. Unit 1: Diagnostic Investigation into Creative Practice (Level 3) Unit 2: Developing Specialist Practice (Level 3) Unit 4: Consolidating Practice (Level 4) Units 1 and 2 are graded Pass only. The overall qualification grade is based on Unit 4 and is graded as Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction. Progression Whether you are aiming at competitive degree courses, seeking employment or Apprenticeships, this course will help you to develop your portfolio. Many artists and designers say that this was the most important year of their education. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English and Mathematics, and two A Level, or equivalent level qualifications, one of which must be a relevant creative subject.
Overview Our UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design is a practical, one-year full time course. It allows lots of freedom to develop personal style and creative direction. The course is recommended by many top universities prior to studying a degree within the Creative Industries. It is an invaluable bridge between A Level and Vocational courses and Higher Education. You will find this course exciting, fast-paced, challenging and rewarding. It is a chance to really explore your own personal interests, before making a commitment to employment and Higher Education at university. You will gain the necessary skills that are required for success at a higher level that has not previously been explored within A Level or Vocational studies. If you are interested in a creative and commercial career in art and design, this is the course for you. Structure On the Foundation Diploma in Art & Design at HSDC Alton you will study a range of challenging and creative projects that enable you to: – Work in specialist areas from the start of the course – Explore new specialisms – Build a sophisticated and ambitious portfolio – Develop analytical and evaluative communication skills – Design for a better future - engage in sustainable and ethical design practice Experienced tutors will support and guide you across different pathways to use a range of art and design materials and approaches. You have the opportunity to specialise in fine art, photography, graphic design, fashion, textiles, 3D design, animation, illustration, film set design, costume, fashion promotion, drawing or photography digital skills.
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ART & DESIGN A Level
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Teaching & Learning Lesson activities include plenty of time to develop your ideas and imagery with guidance from tutors, alongside workshop sessions where new skills are developed and critical discussion of students’ and artists’ work. You are encouraged to work in a range of media such as drawing, painting, collage, digital, 3D and printmaking. Art is directly relevant to a wide range of careers from architect to tattooist. The creative and independent way of thinking art encourages is valuable in all walks of life. Assessment 60% personal investigation and 40% externally set task. The externally set task includes a 15-hour practical controlled exam. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4. We recommend a grade 5 in a creative or technical subject at GCSE, although in exceptional circumstances we do consider students without an Art qualification.
Overview This course focuses on Fine Art skills, but is directly relevant to careers in architecture, illustration, product design, graphic design and fashion. Creativity encourages and promotes independent thinking and can complement more academic studies. Visits to London galleries are offered on this course along with opportunities to experience cultural destinations abroad. Enthusiasm, good drawing ability and the resourcefulness to work independently are important qualities for students to be successful. Structure You will study: – A range of projects that follow a series of thematically based topics, to include “Journey”, “City” and “Portrait”. – Workshop sessions will introduce you to a range of materials and techniques, allowing you the freedom to experiment with your own imagery and ideas. – In year 2, you will undertake a Personal Investigation in a specialist area of your own choice where you explore an aspect of Art and Design
that interests you, this will involve producing sketchbooks and outcomes. The Personal Investigation will be supported with an essay (maximum 3000 words).
Explorative sketchbook work will prepare you for the externally set task with a topic set by the exam board. This component is followed from February of your second year culminating in a 15- hour timed period to produce your outcome.
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ART & DESIGN UAL Diploma Level 2
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 1 year
Assessment 100% coursework. Entry Requirements
You should have achieved a minimum of four GCSE’s at grade 3. You should have an interest in art-related subjects.
Overview This one-year Vocational creative course will give you the opportunity to explore the various aspects of Art and Design: you will cover a wide range of units such as exploring the work of artists & designers, graphic design, photography, textile design and producing art or design work for sale and exhibition. A highly practical course, ideal for you if you are aiming to progress toward Level 3 or a creative career. You will be guided by specialist staff and given the opportunity to experiment and expand your creative potential in our dedicated teaching rooms. Structure This course will provide students with an interest in art and design with the opportunity to explore the materials, methods and processes that support art and design activities, and to begin to develop some related technical skills. Teaching & Learning Lessons activities are wide-ranging and stimulating from theory-based to practical exploration. You will develop your own ideas by researching other artists and be encouraged to examine the world around you visually. You will work through a variety of techniques and learn to work with appropriate media, materials and processes. Art & Design students are expected to write about and annotate work, express personal and creative ideas and produce final outcomes using a range of approaches and methods derived in textiles, graphic design and photography.
Courses | HSDC ALTON COLLEGE 23
ART TEXTILES A Level
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Teaching & Learning Lesson activities include plenty of time to develop your ideas and techniques with guidance from tutors, alongside workshop sessions where new skills are developed and with detailed discussion of your work. You are encouraged to work with a range of media and techniques such as silk screen printing, heat press, laser cutting, pattern cutting, using sewing machines, dressmaking skills, applique, felt making, drawing, collage and digital development. Time is also spent on research, design and making. Art Textiles is directly relevant to a wide range of careers from accessories designer to weaver and the creative and independent way of thinking is valuable in all walks of life. Assessment 60% personal investigation and 40% externally set task. The externally set task includes a 15- hour practical controlled exam. Progression Direct entry to Higher Education courses. Entry to Foundation Art and Design. Employment in careers such as interior design and fashion design. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4. We recommend a grade 5 in a creative or technical subject at GCSE, although we do consider students without a Textiles or Art qualification.
Overview The Art Textiles A Level gives you the time to explore textiles, fashion and art to build your skills in fabric techniques, making and up- cycling outcomes, drawing skills and developing sketchbooks. You will be able to work with a range of media to create your work and the course is relevant to careers in textiles, fashion, set and costume design, interior design, buyer, visual merchandising or surface design. It is a creative and stimulating course which encourages independent thinking. Visits to exhibitions are encouraged. Structure Workshop sessions introduce you to a range of materials and techniques, allowing you the freedom to experiment with your own imagery and ideas. Projects encourage you to produce interesting sketchbooks, primary imagery and designs along with making outcomes ranging from fashion, accessories and interiors, to up-cycling furniture. Year 1 allows you to be experimental and develop a diverse range of work. In Year 2, you will undertake a more focused Personal Investigation in an area of your choice where you explore aspects of fashion, textiles, accessories or interior design that interest you; this will involve producing sketchbooks and outcomes. The Personal Investigation will be supported with an essay (maximum 3000 words). Exploratory sketchbook work prepares you for the externally set project with a topic set by the exam board. This component is followed from February of Year 2, culminating in a 15-hour timed period to produce your outcome.
24 HSDC ALTON COLLEGE | Courses
CREATIVE MEDIA PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY – FILM & TV PRODUCTION UAL Level 3 Diploma (=3 A Levels)
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
– Desktop Publishing - produce a double-page magazine spread that sells YOU as a media producer – Website production - design your own website to show off your production skills and start building your careers portfolio – Final Major Project - at the end of both years, your grades will depend on projects that YOU have chosen. Show what you have learned at HSDC Alton by creating an audio/visual piece that reflects your interests and ambitions Teaching & Learning Learning happens in a variety of ways: through classroom-based lessons, workshop activities, independent study and, where possible, work placements. The course requires a very high level of commitment and flexibility. You will be encouraged to experience a wide range of roles and responsibilities. As well as creating TV programmes using professional-standard media equipment, you will also develop important life skills such as time management and effective teamwork. Assessment 100% coursework. Progression Many of our students continue media/film production at university. We also coach students who are applying for jobs and Apprenticeships in the media industry. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4. Alternatively, if you have studied at Level 2, you should have achieved a Merit or above. You must have achieved at least a 4 in English or Mathematics (preferably both). To study this course, you should have an interest in creative subjects and technology.
Overview The media industry is a vast and lucrative industry with many possible avenues for creative employment. On this course, you will work to create music videos, short films, radio dramas, magazine articles, live TV programmes and documentaries. Projects are based on realistic industry scenarios and you’ll get the opportunity to try out a range of roles including director, producer, editor and camera operator. You will work in our new Gaming & Creative Digital Studios, developing your technical and creative skills to create modern, engaging content. Good organisational skills, a keen imagination and an enjoyment of working with others are important qualities. By the end of the course, you will have compiled a portfolio of work which can be used to progress to a degree or HND at university or to seek employment directly in the media industry. Structure You will study:
– Short Film - learn and then test out your filmmaking skills by creating a short film
– Music Videos - work with existing songs or find a band to make your own music videos (many top directors have started out this way) – Multi-Camera Productions - work in our dedicated studio space to create a short live programme – Video Art Installation - work to create an art piece that marries video and installation work into one cohesive piece – TV Advertising - study professional examples and engage with the persuasive techniques used to sell products before making your own – Radio Drama - learn the importance of sound by writing and producing your own original radio drama. Imagination and creativity are a must!
Courses | HSDC ALTON COLLEGE 25
CREATIVE MEDIA PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY - GAMES DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT UAL Extended Diploma Level 3 (=3 A Levels)
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Teaching & Learning Using the latest hardware and software technology, aligned with industry practice in games development, you will have the opportunity to acquire real-world skills and experience in this emerging industry. You will be using software from Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Audition, Unreal Engine, Game Maker and Unity. This course will include a variety of teaching methods using online digital resources, with you developing a range of portfolios in various different formats. Where appropriate, guest speakers and industry experts will be invited in to provide insight into games development. Assessment Assessments will largely be project-based, leading to a collaborative project at the end of each year. Progression After successfully completing this course, you could progress onto a university degree, Level 4 Apprenticeship in Games Development or another relevant industry. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Mathematics.
Overview Housed in our new Gaming & Creative Design Studios, the multidisciplinary nature of this course will allow HSDC Alton to offer you the very best experience when working in this field. You will learn about the games industry; from devising a concept to developing a working prototype using industry-standard applications. We have invested heavily in both new hardware and software, based on the input from industry experts to ensure you start off right on this exciting course. Over the two years, you will gain both technical and non-technical skills that are highly regarded by the industry. We will provide you with all the relevant software to enable you to develop and hone your skills outside of the classroom. This will be a fully digital course, utilising a range of different digital resources and submission of assignments. Structure The course will be two years, where you will cover a mixture of specialist application and industry specific skills. During the first year, the focus is on the industry skills, Higher Education and industry visits. On this Level 3 course you will be studying:
– Digital Media Skills – Media Campaigns – 3D Modelling – Games Engine Scripting using Unreal – 3D Digital Animation – Sound Design – Working in the Creative Media Industry
26 HSDC ALTON COLLEGE | Courses
CREATIVE PRACTICE: ART, DESIGN & COMMUNICATION UAL Level 3 Diploma & Extended Diploma (=3 A Levels)
Venue: Alton Campus Duration: 2 years
Teaching & Learning This course has been designed to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to progress to a refined level of working within degree-level study in Art & Design, or into employment or Apprenticeship. It provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in the visual arts to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is stimulating, demanding and which provides a supportive transition from Further to Higher Education. The full time course is highly practical and lesson activities include time to develop your project work with guidance from tutors, alongside workshop sessions where new skills are delivered, along with critical discussion of students’ and artists’ work. On the course, teachers give comprehensive support and guidance with creating student portfolios and statements for application to Higher Education. This course has an excellent reputation with universities and many strong links have been formed with HSDC Alton, one of these includes our Thrive partnership with the University for the Creative Arts. Assessment 100% coursework. Progression Typically, students go on to study subject areas such as illustration, fine art, graphic design, fashion design, textiles, 3D design, photography, textile design and animation. Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at grade 9-4 including Maths, English and an art based subject. Alternatively, if you have studied at Level 2, you should have achieved a Merit or above. and will need to show evidence of your creative work or portfolio at interview.
Overview This highly practical course is ideal for direct progression into Higher Education or creative careers. Assignments cover a range of Art and Design pathways such as graphic design, fine art, fashion & textiles, 3d design, illustration, animation and photography. Year 2 gives the opportunity to specialise in a particular field and will give you the opportunity to visit a major cultural venue abroad to help enrich your creative skills. You’ll complement your work with research and visits to London galleries. The course is taught by experienced and enthusiastic tutors and develops creative skills through sustained project work. Teaching is largely one-to-one guidance with group discussion and reflection. Structure On this course, you will study: • A range of projects that explore different aspects of Art and Design such as graphic design, fashion design, textiles, illustration, photography, fine art, 3d and animation • How to use a range of Art and Design materials and approaches effectively such as painting, printmaking, sculpture, digital media, photography, graphic layout, drawing, garment making and illustration • A specialist creative pathway in Year 2 that allows you to explore your chosen way of working in depth • The course concludes with a Final Major Project in which you choose and investigate a creative topic that fits in with your skills and progression ambitions
Courses | HSDC ALTON COLLEGE 27
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