Level 3

Level 3 Diploma in Textile Design with SEND Support Package for schools and local authorities

EXCELLENT

4.6 of 5 on 209 Reviews

Progress to University

Online Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design
(Textile Design Pathway)
Explore Colour, Pattern, and Surface – Flexible Online Learning for Future Textile Designers

Our Online Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design, with a specialism in Textile Design, offers an inclusive, creative, and fully online qualification for students passionate about fabrics, materials, and surface design. Whether your interest lies in fashion textiles, interiors, printmaking, or sustainable design, this course is the perfect pathway to university-level study or a creative career.

The programme is fully compliant with the UK Equality Act 2010 and supports inclusive education through adherence to the Children and Families Act 2014, the Education Act 1996, the SEND Code of Practice, and KCSIE (Keeping Children Safe in Education) safeguarding standards.


Two Flexible Study Options – Supporting SEND and Alternative Provision

To meet the unique needs of every learner, we offer two distinct pathways:

1. Standard Level 3 Diploma in Textile Design

An independent, accredited online course suitable for all learners—including those with SEND. This option provides access to a full creative curriculum in textile design and ensures equal opportunity in line with the UK Equality Act 2010.

2. Level 3 Diploma with SEND Support Package

Developed for schools, local authorities, and care providers, this package includes both the course and extensive support services for schools, local authorities, care homes and other organisations with statutory duties for the education of children:

  • Dedicated SENDCO support

  • EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) assistance

  • Enhanced DBS-checked team

  • Annual reviews and personalised progress tracking

  • Fast onboarding process

  • Attendance and engagement monitoring

  • Termly reports for stakeholders

  • Involvement in TACs, CIN, and other multi-agency meetings

  • GDPR-compliant systems

  • Full public liability insurance

  • UKRLP registration

  • Active collaboration with families, schools, and professionals

  • Targeted interventions and measurable impact assessments

We are registered with multiple local authorities and can be formally named as a provider on EHCPs.


Learn Textile Design Online with Industry Experts

This course is taught by experienced tutors with backgrounds in textiles, surface pattern design, fashion, and education. Students gain valuable skills and build an industry-ready portfolio through:

  • Live one-to-one online tutorials

  • Creative projects and design briefs reflecting real-world practice

  • Development of a professional textile portfolio for university or job applications

Study options:

  • Full-time (complete in one academic year)

  • Part-time (over two years, with no extra fees)


Inclusive, Accessible, and Designed for Creative Growth

OCAD is committed to inclusive education, accessibility, and learner success. Our online platform and teaching model are designed to support diverse learning needs, ensuring every student can achieve their potential in a safe, supportive environment.


Begin Your Journey in Textile Design Today
Enrol today to earn a nationally recognised creative qualification in textile design, taught online by professionals, and supported every step of the way—ideal for individuals and institutional partners alike

This exciting and transformative one year course (can be extended at extra cost) gives students the skills they need, providing them with unique insights into the dynamics of this ever-evolving industry.

This stimulating course has a strong practical focus, developing not just skills, knowledge and understanding of cultures, design and design theory, but also the development of challenging ideas.

Successful graduates earn a Foundation Diploma qualification that is equivalent to 2 or 3 A Levels in terms of UCAS points, depending on final grade attained and is nationally accredited by one of the UK’s largest vocational awarding bodies, SEG ABC Awards.

Equally valuable, graduates achieve a specialist textiles portfolio that expresses their personal artistic style, their ideas and skills, enabling them to access top universities and employment as a professional qualified textile designer.

Work produced on this course

Course overview

Entry Criteria

To enrol on the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (Textile Design Pathway), applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age: 16 years or older
  • Academic Qualifications:
    • Minimum of 5 GCSEs / IGCSEs, including English, Maths, and an Art, Photography or Design-related subject
    • An appropriate portfolio of creative work is also required
    • Equivalent international qualifications are accepted

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

  • Part-Time Programme (2 Years):
    • Enrolment open all year round – Start anytime
    • Flexible learning for those balancing other commitments
  • Full-Time Programme (1 Year):
    • Main start dates: September–October and December–January
    • Exceptions may apply depending on availability

Course Requirements

To participate, students will need:

  • A computer with a broadband internet connection
  • Basic art materials (a list will be provided upon enrolment)

Progression & Qualifications

  • Qualification: SEG ABC Awards Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (Textile Design)
  • OFQUAL Regulated: Yes (Regulation Number: 500/8476/8)
  • UCAS Tariff: Up to 112 points – equivalent to two A A-Levels*
    • Most universities require 80–100 UCAS points for entry
  • UCAS Application Support: Provided
  • Portfolio Development Support: Included
  • Tuition: Unlimited, one-to-one, face-to-face online sessions with industry professionals

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.

 

How it works

When you enrol in one of our online textiles 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:

  • Clearly structured units and assignments
  • A wide range of supporting resources
  • Step-by-step guides to help you complete tasks with confidence
  • Video tutorials to develop essential creative and technical skills

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:

  • Discuss your progress
  • Ask questions and receive tailored advice
  • Get verbal feedback and encouragement in real time

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:

  • View peer profiles
  • Share and comment on each other’s artwork
  • Build friendships and creative connections within the virtual studio space

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.

Structure of the course

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:

  • 📷 Photography (mandatory)
  • 🎨 Fine Art
  • ✏️ Graphic Design & Illustration
  • 🏛️ 3D Design (Architecture, Product Design, Sculpture)
  • 👗 Fashion & Textiles

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:

  • A short film or animation
  • A fashion piece or garment
  • A photography series
  • A fine art painting or installation
  • A graphic design portfolio
  • An architectural model or interior design concept
  • A video game prototype or interactive media project

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.

Fees

UK fee

Annual course fees (renewable if required following annual review): £9000 GBP

Concessions are available for recipients of state benefits.

Outside UK

Annual course fees (renewable if required following annual review): £10,000 GBP – Must be able to communicate in English both verbally and in writing.

Outside Europe

Annual course fees (renewable if required following annual review): £10,000 GBP – Must be able to communicate in English both verbally and in writing.

Join our network of international agents – Become an OCAD centre

Our accreditations