L2Pearson BTEC International Level 2
Art and Design
You'll study studio foundations, digital storytelling and materials and processes. A Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Extended Certificate: 360 guided learning hours.
Full title: Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Extended Certificate in Art and Design
- Level
- Level 2Extended Certificate
- Size
- 360guided learning hours
- Units
- 3 mandatoryplus 11 optional listed
- For
- Ages 14 to 16typically
01What you'll study
Three areas of study.
-
Studio Foundations
Observation, mark-making, colour theory, and composition build core visual literacy.
-
Digital Storytelling
Adobe CC, photography, and motion briefs foster confident cross-media communication.
-
Materials & Processes
Fashion, textiles, 3D craft, and print labs develop craftsmanship and experimentation.
Where you learn
In Lisbon, or wherever you are.
The same Pearson qualification, whichever way you study.
02The units
What's on the course.
Mandatory units, plus optional units. Your final set of optional units is confirmed with your academic team.
- Mandatory
- 3
- Optional listed
- 11
- PSA units
- 2
- Unit 1 Developing Art and Design in Response to a ThemePSA Mandatory
- Unit 2 Visual CommunicationPSA Mandatory
- Unit 3 Building an Art and Design Portfolio Mandatory
Show the 11 optional units
- Unit 4 Contextual References in Art and Design Optional
- Unit 5 Practical Research Project Optional
- Unit 6 Working with a Graphic Design Brief Optional
- Unit 7 Working with a Photography Brief Optional
- Unit 8 Working with a Textiles Brief Optional
- Unit 9 Working with a Fashion Design Brief Optional
- Unit 10 Working with a 3D Design Brief Optional
- Unit 11 Working with a Visual Arts Brief Optional
- Unit 12 Working with a Digital Art and Design Brief Optional
- Unit 13 Working with a Design Crafts Brief Optional
- Unit 14 Working with a Moving Image Brief Optional
PSA Pearson Set Assignment: a unit assessed through an assignment that Pearson sets.
03How you're assessed
Assessed through assignments.
Assignment-based (coursework), with some Pearson Set Assignment units.
Assessment at a glance
- All assessment is coursework-based — practical outcomes + reflection.
- Pearson Set Assignment (PSA) units follow Pearson briefs with external standards verification.
- Your sketchbook, research, and process matter as much as the final piece.
Skills you build
- Sketchbook research, critical reflection, and design thinking sprints
- Digital imaging, motion graphics, and content creation workflows
- Fabric manipulation, garment prototyping, and surface design
- Spatial design, model-making, and CAD visualisation for 3D briefs
04Where it leads
Every level opens the next.
Level 3 is the next level after Level 2.
- L2 Art and Design This course
- L3 Art and Design Level 3
- HNC Architectural Technology HNC (Level 4)
- HND Architectural Technology HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
- L2 Art and Design This course
- L3 Art and Design Level 3
- HNC Fashion and Textiles HNC (Level 4)
- HND Fashion and Textiles HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
- L2 Art and Design This course
- L3 Art and Design Level 3
- HNC Fine Art HNC (Level 4)
- HND Fine Art HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
- L2 Art and Design This course
- L3 Art and Design Level 3
- HNC Interior Design HNC (Level 4)
- HND Interior Design HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
What is a BTEC?
A career-focused qualification from Pearson. BTECs are assignment-based: you are assessed through coursework, with some Pearson Set Assignment units.
Is Level 2 the right level for me?
It depends on your age and what you have studied so far. Level 2 typically suits ages 14 to 16 and Level 3 ages 16 to 18. Tell us about yourself and we'll suggest a starting level.
How big is the qualification?
360 guided learning hours.
What does it cost?
Fees are set by level, with and without boarding. The Level 2 figures are on the fees page. See the fees.
How do I apply?
Send us an enquiry with the subject and level you are interested in. We'll get back to you to talk through your options and the next steps.
06Start here
Where will you start?
Tell us about yourself, what you'd like to study and whether you'd rather join us in Lisbon or online. We'll suggest a starting level and talk you through your options.