Title: Art

Code: 6M4029

Level: 6

Type: Major

Learners on this course develop their creative skills through hands-on modules in drawing, painting, print, sculpture, and combined materials. In the third term, they focus on an end-of-year personal project, engaging in independent learning and reflective practice. Alongside this, modules in communications, exhibition techniques, and work experience help build professional skills that are valuable beyond the arts, including in business, technology, and education. The year concludes with a group exhibition, celebrating the diverse work created throughout the course.

Graduates can apply for first-year entry into degree programmes such as Fine Art, Fashion Design, Visual Communications, and Art Education, or, in some cases, for advanced entry into the second year of select courses. Past learners have successfully progressed to institutions including NCAD, IADT, Crawford College of Art, Limerick School of Art, and Glasgow School of Art. The QQI Level 6 Portfolio Preparation course at Gorey School of Art provides the skills, confidence, and critical thinking needed for a successful career in art and design.

Through hands-on modules in drawing, painting, print, sculpture, and combined materials, learners develop their creative abilities and skills. In the third term learners work towards an end of year personal project engaging in independent learning and reflective practice. Modules in Communications, exhibition techniques and work experience build professional skills that extend beyond art, benefiting areas such as, business, technology, and education. The year culminates in a group exhibition which is a celebration of the diversity of work made during the year.

With a focus on individualised learning, learners receive tailored support, including work shadowing, studio visits, and tutorials with visiting artists. Graduates can apply for first-year entry into degree programmes such as Fine Art, Fashion Design, Visual Communications, and Art Education, or apply for advanced entry into second year of select courses.

Past learners have successfully progressed to institutions including NCAD, IADT, Crawford College of Art, Limerick School of Art, and Glasgow School of Art.The QQI Level 6 Portfolio Preparation course at Gorey School of Art equips learners with the skills, confidence, and critical thinking necessary for success in a career in art and design.

• Experiment with diverse art techniques like drawing, painting, and sculpture, building a versatile portfolio.

• Develop your unique artistic style through personalised guidance and exploration, unlocking your creative vision.

• Learn the essential skills to present your work professionally and impress admissions panels, crafting a standout portfolio.

• Gain valuable feedback and support from experienced artists and educators through expert mentorship.

• Discover new mediums and approaches, fostering a deeper understanding of your creative potential, exploring your artistic passion.

• Build the confidence and skills needed to secure a place in your dream art programme, preparing for art college success.

6N3452 Painting

6N3569 Drawing

6N3568 Printmaking

6N3570 Sculpture

5N0764 Combined Materials

6N3427 Exhibition Techniques

6N1950 Communications

6N1946 Work Experience

After completing this course, learners can progress to further education or enter the creative industries with a strong portfolio and valuable skills. Many graduates gain entry into first-year degree programmes in Fine Art, Product Design, Visual Communications, Art Education, Fashion Design and more, while some may qualify for direct entry into the second year of select courses. Past students have successfully moved on to institutions such as NCAD, IADT, Crawford College of Art, Limerick School of Art, and Glasgow School of Art. Others use the course to refine their artistic practice, pursue freelance opportunities, or apply their creative problem-solving skills in related fields such as design, media, and education.

This course welcomes learners from diverse backgrounds, including those who have just finished second level education and learners looking to upskill, change careers, or continue their education. This course is open to all learners, including those who may have completed an NFQ Level 5 qualification.

To succeed, learners should be motivated, open to new ideas, and willing to develop both creative and critical thinking skills. They should be comfortable working independently and as part of a team and taking responsibility for their own learning. The course requires active participation in studio  skills building workshops, project work, and self-directed study. Learners will also gain hands-on experience with a range of creative tools and problem-solving techniques to prepare them for further education or a career in the arts.

To apply for the Advanced Portfolio Preparation course, you’ll need to have completed either the Leaving Certificate or a FETAC Level 5 programme. As part of the application, we ask you to bring a small portfolio of your recent artwork to an informal interview. This is simply a chance for our tutors to chat with you, see your work, and help determine if the course is the right fit. If it turns out this course isn’t the best option for you, don’t worry—you’ll automatically be offered a place on our FETAC Level 5 Portfolio Preparation course instead.

While we prefer applicants to have certain academic qualifications—such as passes in five ordinary level Leaving Cert subjects and two higher-level subjects, or three distinctions in an art-related FETAC Level 5 course—this isn’t a strict requirement. Mature applicants (aged 23 and over) don’t need to meet these academic criteria but will still need to present a portfolio and attend the interview. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to drop into the school for a chat—we’re happy to help!