Ages 14–16
Years 10–11, tailored timetables with IB-style pastoral care
14 Specialist Units
3 core set assignments plus 11 optional pathways across design disciplines
480 GLH
Intensive one-year programme equivalent to four International GCSEs
Portfolio Showcase
Curated exhibitions, digital portfolios, and industry feedback panels
Studio-Led Learning for Emerging Creatives
Learners explore drawing, digital media, textiles, photography, and 3D processes while building design thinking, research, and presentation skills. Prime School’s specialist teachers connect studio briefs to real cultural contexts, preparing students for Level 3 study and creative entrepreneurship.
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.
Progression Coaching
Mentoring on Level 3 pathways, creative careers, and entrepreneurship in Portugal.
Curriculum Structure
The Level 2 suite offers Award (120 GLH), Certificate (240 GLH), Extended Certificate (360 GLH), and Diploma (480 GLH) routes. Units 1 and 2 are Pearson Set Assignments providing international benchmarking; Unit 3 secures portfolio readiness before learners specialise with optional briefs across graphics, photography, textiles, fashion, 3D, moving image, and digital art.
| Unit (number and title) | Unit size (GLH) |
Diploma (480 GLH) |
|---|---|---|
|
1
Developing Art and Design in Response to a ThemePSA
|
60 | M |
|
2
Visual CommunicationPSA
|
60 | M |
|
3
Building an Art and Design Portfolio
|
60 | M |
|
4
Contextual References in Art and Design
|
60 | O |
|
5
Practical Research Project
|
60 | O |
|
6
Working with a Graphic Design Brief
|
60 | O |
|
7
Working with a Photography Brief
|
60 | O |
|
8
Working with a Textiles Brief
|
60 | O |
|
9
Working with a Fashion Design Brief
|
60 | O |
|
10
Working with a 3D Design Brief
|
60 | O |
|
11
Working with a Visual Arts Brief
|
60 | O |
|
12
Working with a Digital Art and Design Brief
|
60 | O |
|
13
Working with a Design Crafts Brief
|
60 | O |
|
14
Working with a Moving Image Brief
|
60 | O |
Skills for Future Creatives
- 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.
- Professional presentation, exhibition curation, and client pitching.
Assessment Approach
- Portfolio-based assignments, critiques, and peer reviews.
- Pearson Set Assignments for Units 1 & 2 delivered under supervised conditions.
- Live client-style briefs with Lisbon and Cascais cultural partners.
- Digital evidence logs tracking progress, feedback, and personal targets.
Progression & Recognition
Graduates progress confidently to:
- BTEC International Level 3 Art & Design (Subsidiary, Foundation, Diploma, Extended).
- IBCP Visual Arts pathways or Cambridge International AS/A Level Art & Design.
- Creative apprenticeships in design studios, photography labs, or fashion ateliers.
- Prime School’s Creative Entrepreneurship Accelerator for market-ready start-ups.
“I experimented with textiles, film, and graphics in one year. The Level 2 diploma gave me the portfolio and confidence to secure my Level 3 place.”
Creative Pathways & Studio Culture
Learners collaborate with visiting artists, galleries, and design agencies to experience the full creative pipeline from concept to exhibition.
Studio residency opportunities
Industry Mentors
Lisbon creative directors guide live briefs and portfolio critiques.
Gallery Exposure
Annual Prime School exhibition plus partner showcases in Cascais.
Cultural Visits
Museums, design fairs, and studio tours embedded within project timelines.
Entrepreneurial Support
Pop-up shops and online marketplace coaching to monetise creative work.
Ignite Your Creative Future at Prime School
Join the BTEC Art & Design Level 2 Diploma to master studio craft, digital storytelling, and the professional skills global creative industries demand.