The primary aim of the Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (QCF) is to educate students to make informed decisions which will facilitate their progression (primarily, but not exclusively) to appropriate higher education in Art and Design. The Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (QCF) builds on the students’ prior experience. Skills already acquired are linked with ideas and challenges, which extend students’ critical independence and enable them to demonstrate a full understanding of the application of art and design, relevant to progression opportunities and career choice.

The integrated nature of the program is essential because of the present complexities within the higher education sector where specialist provision sits alongside modular schemes. The course is characterized by experiential, experimental, and integrated learning, relying upon the development of manual skills, whilst valuing the accidental and disruptive results that can occur. The program of study must ensure that the full range of teaching expertise and learning opportunities are provided which are necessary for student awareness of the demands of art and design, and recognition of the common principles and distinctive characteristics of subject disciplines.

The Level 3 elements of the program aim to develop the students’ ability to challenge their own preconceptions, to analyze, reflect on and review their progress within the context of art and design and to increase their personal independence in developing ideas and extending their skills in using materials, techniques and processes.

The Level 4 elements of the program (which students will experience in both pathway and confirmatory stages) aim to develop the student’s capacity for in-depth enquiry, autonomy, critical analysis and initiative in exploring ideas and adapting media, while bringing the scope of their study to an ambitious and coherent conclusion. The Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (QCF) is distinguished from other art and design qualifications at this level in the QCF by the fostering of the students’ ability to understand how art and design disciplines can interrelate and the contemporary contexts in which they operate. The program is also distinguished by its recognition of the importance of independent thinking, organization, and motivation, leading to an informed choice of progression opportunities.