Art and Design (Foundation) Diploma: Learning support

Classes

Teaching is in the form of studio work, supported by:

• one-to-one tutorials:
• lectures;
• seminars; and
• practical skills workshops. 

You work in a small studio group of approximately 20 students, led by a subject-specific tutor.  Wherever possible, you have the chance the opportunity to work on real projects.

Additional academic support

Our experienced staff help all students achieve their full potential.

In the studio, tutors are usually on hand to help you so it's easy to get one-to-one time.  When you join the course, we assign you a personal tutor to provide support throughout your time here.  Plus you can turn to the module if you have a subject specific question. 

Student Support Co-ordinator

The Student Support Co-ordinator provides a confidential drop in centre where you can discuss any issue you are having difficulty with.

International Tutor

We recognise that international students may have different issues and problems to home-based students. To help you settle in, you will have a nominated tutor who will remain with you throughout your academic year.

The tutor is the deputy head of department with a wealth of knowledge of international issues so can help you with language support as well as day-to-day course-related queries. This has proved invaluable in the past and will be an additional support to you through your time at Kingston.

Library

The campus library includes:

• a specialist book and journal collection for architecture, art and design students;
• a comprehensive collection of over 200,000 slides; and
• visual references dating back to the 1600s.

Learning Resources Centre

Facilities at the LRC include open access computers for:

• word processing;
• Internet access; and
• database searches. 

Studio facilities

You have access to excellent workshops and learning space, working alongside honours degree students.

Introductory sessions give you the skills you need to get the most out of these workshops, including:

• photography;
• life drawing;
• computer and IT skills workshops.

These sessions encourage you to produce solutions to problems and a diverse portfolio. The course is very much ideas-based, with staff on hand to encourage you to reach your potential and progress to the degree course of your choice.

Galleries and art

The Stanley Picker Gallery for the Arts is the University's own gallery for exhibitions of fine art, music recitals and mixed media events.  Kingston also has a collection of sculpture, painting and decorative art.

StudySpace

StudySpace is a web-based learning management system that provides access to a host of information and material to assist with your studies.

StudySpace resources vary from module to module.  For example, it might include:

• subject guides;
• lecture notes;
• presentations; and
• even sound and video clips.

Other useful features are online discussion forums (bulletin boards), a virtual classroom and a drop box (for online submission of coursework).

My Kingston

My Kingston is the University's comprehensive, user-friendly intranet site, providing you with everything you need to know about student life.

My Kingston will help you get your bearings in your first few weeks at Kingston and keep you plugged into the University community throughout your time here.

Learn more about the Foundation Diploma course, meet course lecturers, current students and take a tour of the campus by atttending one of our open sessions.