Boomsatsuma, Bristol’s leading creative college, is launching a brand-new Art and Design course from September 2026, opening the door for aspiring artists and designers to turn their creativity into a career.

Awarded by the University of the Arts London (UAL), the course offers the UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication. Designed around hands-on learning and real-world creative practice, the programme equips students with the skills, confidence and industry insight needed to progress directly into creative careers or higher education and to play an active role in Bristol’s thriving creative sector.

Aimed at students aged 16–18, the course is built for learners who want to explore, experiment and develop their creative identity through practical, industry-led learning.

In the first year, students explore a wide range of creative practices, helping them discover their strengths and passions across art and design disciplines, from illustration, fine art and graphic design to moving image and interior design. In the second year, students specialise in a pathway aligned with their personal creative interests, developing advanced practical skills and graduating with a strong, professional portfolio.

Strong Industry Connections

Boomsatsuma is known for its deeply industry-connected approach, working in close collaboration with Bristol’s creative community to give students meaningful real-world experience. This new Art and Design course is no exception.

Already confirmed to deliver masterclasses, workshops and Q&As to the first cohort are graffiti artist Inkie, multi-disciplinary artist Zöe Power, printmakers Ian Chamberlain and Jemma Gunning, Nick Hand, Founder of The Letterpress Collective, artist duo Copper Sounds, and illustrator Beth Suzanna, with further leading practitioners to be announced.

These sessions will give students direct insight into contemporary creative practice, spanning street art, printmaking, illustration and multidisciplinary design.

“This is an exciting and much-needed development for Bristol’s creative scene,” said Inkie, the well-known Bristol-based graffiti artist. “Boomsatsuma has a strong track record of supporting emerging creative talent, so I’m confident this programme will make a real impact. I’m looking forward to being involved and to seeing the next generation of artists develop in the city.”

By working closely with local artists, designers and studios, Boomsatsuma creates opportunities for students to collaborate and build the professional networks that matter when starting out in the creative sector.

“This is an incredibly exciting development for Bristol’s creative industries,” said Tom Sowden, Director of Education at Boomsatsuma. “We’re proud to be supporting the next generation of artists and designers through a course shaped by real creative practice, in one of the best creative cities in the UK. It’s about giving students the skills, experience and opportunities they need to thrive in Bristol — and beyond.”

The course will be taught at a Bristol city centre location, placing students at the heart of the city’s creative community. Applications for September 2026 are now open.

For more information and to apply, visit boomsatsuma.com/college-course/art-design

About boomsatsuma

Boomsatsuma is a Bristol-based independent education provider, offering training pathways to people from all backgrounds, from 16 to degree level, into expanding creative industries.