Launching in September 2026, the International Foundation in Art & Design at Cobham Hall is a one-year, university-focused programme designed to nurture confident, independent and globally minded creative thinkers. Delivered in exclusive partnership with NCUK (subject to accreditation), this specialist course offers international students a unique opportunity to explore a broad range of art and design disciplines, develop a strong, personalised portfolio, and gain guaranteed progression to leading universities in the UK and worldwide. Combining studio-based practice, academic development and exceptional individual support, the course bridges the gap between school and degree-level study, providing a clear and inspiring pathway into the global creative industries.
Why choose the International Art & Design Foundation?
A culture of curiosity and independence
At the heart of Cobham Hall’s art department is a belief in creative risk-taking, independent thinking and intellectual curiosity. Studio practice is exploratory and student-led, encouraging experimentation across disciplines while developing confidence, resilience and a strong personal creative voice within a supportive and nurturing environment.
Portfolio-led, concept-driven practice
Portfolio development at Cobham Hall is rooted in ideas as much as outcomes. Students are guided to develop thoughtful, research-informed work that demonstrates originality, technical skill and conceptual depth, resulting in a portfolio that reflects the expectations of leading art and design universities.
Embedded academic and visual communication
Clear communication is central to creative success. Academic English is integrated into studio practice, research and critical reflection, supporting students to articulate ideas visually, verbally and in writing. This approach reflects the department’s commitment to developing articulate, reflective and confident creatives.
Preparing thoughtful creative practitioners
Beyond technical skill, the department prioritises critical thinking, visual literacy and creative problem-solving. Students learn to question, refine and contextualise their work, developing the adaptability and intellectual rigour needed to succeed at university and within the evolving global creative industries.
What will you study?
The NCUK International Art & Design Foundation consists of 130 credits over five carefully designed modules. Delivered across 30 weeks, the programme blends guided learning, hands-on practice and personal exploration for a truly immersive experience. Modules for this programme include:
Introduction to Art and Design (5 credits) – Start your creative exploration by mastering key principles of visual communication, research techniques and studio-based practices.
Discovery (20 credits) – Explore a variety of creative fields and develop core skills in materials, techniques and critical thinking.
Developing a Specialism (35 credits) – Focus on your chosen creative pathway, refine your artistic process and develop a unique, professional-standard portfolio.
Final Major Project (35 credits) Showcase your creativity by designing and delivering an independent project to professional standards, preparing for university-level study.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP) (35 credits) Strengthen your academic communication abilities, with dedicated support tailored to art and design disciplines.
How will you be assessed?
The programme is entirely coursework-based, designed to help you demonstrate your creative and academic expertise with practical outcomes and real-world relevance.
Assessment methods include:
Portfolio submissions showcasing your artistic and technical development.
Creative project assignments with structured briefs to simulate industry expectations.
Reflective journals and sketchbooks documenting your creative process and critical reflection.
Written essays and presentations as part of EAP to enhance your academic literacy.
This balanced approach allows you to build confidence in your abilities while preparing for the expectations of university-level study.
University progression
Students who successfully complete the International Art & Design Foundation and meet the entry requirements of their chosen university can progress to the first year of an undergraduate degree at one of the following NCUK University Partners*: