Creative Futures

Creative Futures is a welcoming introduction to Art Education for 16–18-year-olds who have been home educated for at least one year. The course offers a calm, supportive studio environment where learners can build confidence, explore creative interests and develop practical skills. Through hands-on projects and community opportunities, students create a portfolio and prepare for progression into further Art & Design education at Level 2 or Level 3.

Course Info
Do I have to pay a fee?
Other courses in this area
Creative Futures
LevelEntry Level
LocationColchester
DurationOne year
Study ModeFull-Time
Campus / Adult Skills CentreColchester Campus
Start DateSeptember 2027
Fee(s)16-18 year olds: Free
19+: £321
Awarding/Validation BodyUniversity of the Arts London
What Will I Learn?

You will explore a wide range of creative activities through practical projects and workshops. You will have the opportunity to try different ways of making and developing ideas, including drawing, painting, photography, making, printing and digital work.

Projects will encourage you to explore your own interests and ideas while learning about artists, creative work and the world around you. You will develop your confidence in experimenting, solving problems and trying new things.

You will also develop skills in talking about your work, working with others and working independently. Over time, you will build a portfolio showing your creative development, which can support progression to further study in Art & Design.

You will learn in a supportive environment with clear routines and individual guidance. There may also be opportunities to visit galleries, take part in community projects and share your work with others.

Course Content

Creative Futures may include:

  • Drawing and painting
  • Photography and digital art
  • Making and 3D work
  • Exploring ideas and creativity
  • Exploring artists and their work
  • Trying different materials and techniques
  • Individual and group projects
  • Building confidence and independence
  • Developing a creative portfolio
  • Gallery visits and opportunities to share work
Entry Requirements
  • Must be home-educated for a least 12 months prior to enrolment on the course
  • Face-to-face interview
  • An interview with a portfolio of artwork
Course Progression

Creative Futures is designed to support progression into further education and creative learning. On successful completion, learners can develop a portfolio and progress towards Level 2 or Level 3 Art & Design courses or another appropriate course, depending on individual interests, skills and entry requirements.

Portfolio Guidance

You will be sent a link to submit your portfolio once your application has been submitted and checked by the Admissions Team. Please check your spam and junk folders regularly for updates regarding your application.

Please click the image or link below to the Creative Futures portfolio guide:

Creative Futures portfolio guide

Fees and Finance

Students’ college education is funded for three academic years after leaving secondary school in year 11. Please click the button below which will apply to your age on the 31st August 2027 in order to find out more information about fees and finance relating to your course.

This is a 16-18 years old study programme only.

Disclaimer

All fees, prices and funding information shown on this page are for courses starting in the 2025-26 academic year unless stated otherwise, and are correct at the time of entering/printing information, however these may be subject to change due to factors outside of our control. The College cannot accept legal or financial liability as a result of any such changes.

Courses fees are generally not confirmed for September until June / July due to the above factors.

The course information describes programmes offered by Colchester Institute. The College takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. The information is for guidance and does not form any part of a contract.

The College reserves the right to update and amend information as and when necessary. Colchester Institute will do its best to provide the courses shown, but may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on customer demand and other factors.