Art and Design
Why study Art and Design at NCC?
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You will get to create, design and experiment in disciplines such as printmaking, 3D Design, ceramics, photography and graphics in our fully equipped studios which feature high-grade digital suites and specialist workshops to bring your ideas and your portfolio to life
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Learn from our passionate lecturers who have had real-world experience in the creative sector and who teach every lesson in a way that will develop your technical skills and grow your creative confidence
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Whether you aim to become an interior designer, illustrator, advertising manager, fashion stylist or architect, our links with top universities, employers and apprenticeship providers will open doors to your future
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Achievement is well above the national average but our courses are much more than just grades and qualifications. You will collaborate with other students across college on working projects, you’ll go on multiple trips and you’ll get to exhibit your work with other creatives from the local community
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We work with many successful companies and partner organisations to secure industry placements which can lead to job offers. There are opportunities to be part of live briefs, practical assignments and competitions that will build your professional knowledge and skills to prepare you for success in the creative industry
Creative news and highlights
Latest stories, showcases, and student successes from our Art and Design courses.
Fashion student reaches Royal Opera House design final
Congratulations to Fashion student Scarlett Kent, who won NCC’s Royal Opera House Design Challenge with her striking red and black ensemble. Her bold design stood out in the college final, celebrating the next generation of creative talent.
Success for graphic design students in global competition
Three Creative Arts students from New City College were shortlisted in a global competition which attracted entrants from prestigious art universities, including New York (NYU).
Students’ Italian international work placement trip
Art & Design, IT, and Business students from our Tower Hamlets campus spent two amazing weeks in Florence on a free international work experience trip. They worked with local artists, galleries, and tech companies.
Discover where your course can take you
Not sure what jobs your course could lead to?
Explore career options linked to the subject you’ve applied for. From real-world job roles to industry insights, you’ll see how your studies at New City College can help you build a successful future.
Meet Philippa
“I have thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the course that I have studied at NCC.The college believed in me and that has made me feel that I am able to succeed and do anything I want.”
Top tips
Build a strong, diverse portfolio early on.
Your portfolio is your creative passport! Start collecting and curating your work now—include sketchbooks, experiments, final pieces, and even personal projects. Admissions tutors and future employers want to see your process, so show how your ideas develop from concept to creation.
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Visit galleries, exhibitions, and design festivals regularly (Tate, V&A, local art shows).
Document what catches your eye and reflect on it in a sketchbook or blog. Inspiration doesn’t just come from art — look at fashion, architecture, film, and everyday life.
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Get comfortable talking about your work.
Art and Design courses involve a lot of critiques and group discussions. Practice explaining your ideas, choices, and influences clearly and confidently. Whether it’s in front of your class or on a application, being able to express your creative voice is just as important as the work itself.
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We’re officially Outstanding!
New City College has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted (March 2025) — the highest grade possible.
Inspectors praised our inclusive culture, exceptional teaching, strong student support, and inspirational leadership. We’re proud to be the largest college in the UK to achieve this top rating — and even prouder of what it means for our students.
FAQs
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The Art and Design course is a project-based qualification and mostly coursework driven. You will learn drawing and painting skills, print and textile design, 2D and 3D design, and more.
You have access to dedicated workspaces; the Art and Design classes are in an open-plan studio style. There are various printmaking areas, 3D workshops, ceramics and plaster rooms. Everyone in class has access to Apple Macs and specialist books and resources.
There are excellent opportunities at NCC including International work experience trips! Some of the class recently went to work for two weeks in Florence.
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No, not necessarily.
Each level has set entry requirements- so make sure you check the criteria on the course pages
Tutors will ask to see a portfolio of work at enrolment, this could be work taken from school projects or simply a scrapbook of artwork you have created at home! As long as it showcases your creativity that’s all that matters.
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NCC have such great links with the industry and are always involved in competitions and live work for different companies, like the The Royal Opera House Challenge.
Past students have gone on to study at London School of Fashion, Chelsea College of Arts, Ravensbourne University and other great destinations and with over 2 million jobs in the creative sector, there’s lots of opportunities for progression.
Discover your campus
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Rainham Campus
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Redbridge Campus
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Epping Forest Campus
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Tower Hamlets Campus
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Hackney Campus
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Attlee A Level Academy
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Hackney Sixth Form
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![Ardleigh Green Campus]()
Ardleigh Green
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Havering Sixth Form
