Level 3
Level 3 Diploma in Architecture with SEND Support Package for schools and local authorities
EXCELLENT
4.6 of 5 on 209 Reviews
Online Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design
(Architecture Pathway)
Flexible Online Learning for Aspiring Architects – Inclusive, Accredited, and Career-Focused
Our Online Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design, specialising in Architecture, offers a dynamic and inclusive route for students interested in the built environment, urban design, and sustainable development. Whether you’re preparing for university or aiming for a creative career in architecture or design, this flexible online course is designed to unlock your potential.
Fully accessible in accordance with the UK Equality Act 2010, the programme also aligns with statutory frameworks such as the Children and Families Act 2014, the Education Act 1996, the SEND Code of Practice, and KCSIE (Keeping Children Safe in Education).
To ensure every student receives the support they need, we offer two tailored study options:
A comprehensive, accredited programme available to all students, including those with SEND. This version is fully compliant with the UK Equality Act 2010 and provides access to high-quality architectural education in a 100% online format.
Designed specifically for schools, local authorities, and other organisations supporting learners with additional needs, this version includes a robust support package:
Dedicated SENDCO oversight
EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) support
Enhanced DBS-verified staff
Annual progress reviews and detailed tracking
Fast-track onboarding
Attendance and engagement monitoring
Regular termly reports
Input at multi-agency meetings (e.g. CIN, TACs)
GDPR compliance
Public liability insurance
UKRLP registration
Collaborative work with schools, families, and professionals
Intervention strategies and impact assessments
We are recognised by local authorities across the UK and can be named as a provider on EHCPs.
This pathway is led by experienced professionals from the fields of architecture, design, and education, offering students access to expert mentoring, technical guidance, and creative development. Course highlights include:
Live one-to-one tuition sessions
Industry-informed design briefs and architectural challenges
Creation of a professional portfolio for university or career use
Study options:
Full-time (1 academic year)
Part-time (2 academic years, with no additional cost)
At OCAD, we are committed to inclusion, equality, and accessibility. Our online architecture programme is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of a diverse student base, ensuring everyone has the tools and support to succeed in a creative career.
Start Building Your Future in Architecture Today
Enrol now to earn a nationally recognised creative qualification in architecture through a flexible, fully supported online course—ideal for independent learners, SEND students, and institutional partners alike.
This exciting online SEND architecture course, made specifically for students with special educational needs and/or disability has a strong practical focus, developing not just knowledge and understanding of architectural design and design theory, but also professional design skills.
As with all of our architecture courses, our SEND foundation architecture diploma is based in the UK and is fully online. It lasts one year but can be extended for an additional fee.
Successful graduates earn a nationally recognised architecture diploma qualification that is equivalent to 3 A-Levels in terms of UCAS points. It is nationally accredited by one of the UK’s largest vocational awarding bodies, SEG ABC Awards.
Equally valuable, graduates with a diploma in architecture achieve a specialist portfolio that expresses their personal brand of architectural design, enabling access to top universities and employment as a professional qualified architectural designer.
Entry Criteria
To enrol on the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (Architecture Pathway), applicants must meet the following criteria:
Mature students (aged 19+) do not need formal qualifications, but must demonstrate a basic ability in drawing or painting and a strong motivation to succeed. If you’re unsure of your level, you’re encouraged to submit a sample of your work for feedback.
Study Options & Start Dates
Course Requirements
To participate, students will need:
Progression & Qualifications
Level 3 or Level 4? Explained
The qualification awarded is a Level 3 Diploma, which prepares students for entry to university and is eligible for local authority funding. It is recognised as a further education (FE) qualification and carries UCAS points, making it suitable for students progressing to higher education.
As part of the course, students will complete a final graded unit at Level 4, giving them valuable experience at a higher academic level. This Level 4 unit will appear on the final transcript, but the overall award remains at Level 3.
While the exam board also offers a full Level 4 Foundation Diploma, this does not carry UCAS points and is not typically recommended for students seeking university admission. If desired, students can discuss the Level 4 route after enrolment.
Next Step
Apply now or contact us with your portfolio for a free eligibility review.
When you enrol in one of our online architecture courses in the UK, you’ll gain access to a personalised Online Studio – a dedicated digital workspace where you can manage and complete all aspects of your coursework.
Within your Online Studio, you’ll find:
This platform is designed to make learning flexible, accessible, and engaging—allowing you to progress at your own pace while receiving the guidance you need to succeed.
Your Digital Portfolio
As you complete your projects, you’ll upload photographs and digital versions of your work to your e-portfolio. This digital portfolio forms a key part of your assessment and showcases your creative development.
Each submission receives constructive, friendly written feedback from your tutor, providing you with clear next steps and encouragement to refine and improve your work.
Dedicated One-to-One Support
All students receive ongoing personal support from a qualified and experienced tutor. You’ll have access to live, one-to-one online sessions where you can:
This personal interaction ensures you feel supported throughout your creative journey.
Peer Interaction and Community
Although learning is online, you’re never alone. Students can choose to:
This optional community feature fosters inspiration, collaboration, and a true sense of belonging within our creative learning environment.
Join our online course today and start building your future in design with expert guidance, peer support, and a professional portfolio that opens doors to university and industry.
The course is divided into three key stages, each designed to help you build confidence, develop practical skills, and specialise in your chosen creative pathway.
🎨 1. Exploratory Stage
The Exploratory Stage is the starting point of your creative journey. This phase introduces you to the foundations of art and design, allowing you to work across a variety of disciplines to discover your strengths and interests.
You will gain hands-on experience using different materials, techniques, and digital tools. Emphasis is placed on drawing and photography as essential starting points for all creative work.
You will choose three projects from the five disciplines below, including Photography, which is mandatory:
This stage helps broaden your understanding of creative practices while giving you the chance to experiment and build a strong foundation for specialisation.
🧭 2. Pathway Stage
In the Pathway Stage, you’ll select one specialist area from the Exploratory Stage to explore in greater depth.
Your tutors will guide you through a review of your exploratory work and help you identify where your strengths and interests align. You will then focus on your chosen creative pathway, developing a more advanced skillset and building work that reflects your personal style and goals.
The final decision is yours, with full support from your course tutors.
🏁 3. Confirmatory Stage
The Confirmatory Stage is the final phase of the diploma and the only component that contributes directly to your final grade.
You will produce a Final Major Project (FMP) based on a subject of your choosing. With guidance from your tutor, you will first submit a Statement of Intent, outlining your concept, aims, and creative approach.
Your FMP is entirely practical and can take any creative form, including but not limited to:
This is your opportunity to showcase your individuality, creativity, and professional potential as an emerging artist or designer.
Ready to start your creative journey? Enrol today and begin building a portfolio that opens the door to university and industry success.
Annual course fees (renewable if required following annual review): £10,000 GBP – Must be able to communicate in English both verbally and in writing.
Annual course fees (renewable if required following annual review): £10,000 GBP – Must be able to communicate in English both verbally and in writing.
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