Award/Certificate/Diploma in Creative Techniques

... if you're taking these qualifications

• What sorts of things do they cover?

  There are hundreds of options for anyone interested in a Creative Techniques qualification. Core topics include:

  • using and understanding design principles
  • craft sampling - experimenting with materials, techniques and processes relevant to your chosen craft.

  You can then choose individual options in a vast range of craft areas that include:

  • fashion wear
  • corsetry
  • embroidery
  • feltmaking
  • interior décor
  • soft furnishings
  • life drawing and painting
  • graphic skills and creative computing
  • ceramics
  • jewellery
  • floral design
  • sugarcraft and cake decorating

  In addition to the craft subjects you can also learn essential employability skills that are required to work within industry and to set up, promote and run your own creative business

• How will I learn and be assessed?

  You will learn in a group with your training provider. You will be assessed by continuous practical assessment.
  

• Which level is right for me?

  Creative industry employability skills can be learnt at all levels. They are a mandatory part of the diplomas but can also be accessed as single unit awards or combined as a four unit certificate.

  Level 1

  This is aimed at assistants in craft related business and is designed to give you an insight in to the basic skills needed to progress as a designer maker. It will provide you with the skills needed for employment at a junior level, to create simple well designed craft items and the opportunity to progress to higher levels.

  Level 2

  This is aimed at sole practitioners and is designed to offer a strong foundation in the designer made crafts as well as providing business skills. You will develop the necessary skills to work independently, creating items of well designed and saleable quality.

  Level 3

  This is aimed at those working in studios either as the sole trader or in partnership. The qualification will lead you to advanced and innovative design and production skills as well as providing skills for running a business.

• How long do they take?

  The guided learning hours for each route are as follows:

  • All craft awards at level 1 and 2 are 30 guided learning hours
  • All certificates at level 1 and 2 are 120 guided learning hours
  • All craft awards at level 3 are 60 guided learning hours
  • Craft certificates at level 3 are 180 guided learning hours
  • Craft Diplomas at level 1 and 2 are 450 guided learning hours
  • Craft Diplomas at level 3 are 690 guided learning hours.

  This is a rough guide - each centre decides its own timescales and you can often learn at your own pace.
  

• What jobs could they lead to?

  The Creative Techniques qualification will help you progress your career as a  highly skilled designer-maker:

  • with your own business
  • in a studio practice
  • in employment within the creative industries.

  It can also help you progress to a degree or to a career in teaching.

  If you are interested in developing your management skills you could also choose a Leadership and Management qualification, available through our sister organisation ILM.