Practical work is a critical element of all Design School courses, as we believe that it is only by putting theory into practice that you can really begin to take it on board and develop your design skills. Students often ask us how we fit practical work in to a distance learning course. The answer is it's very easy! Students are given clear guidelines on how to prepare plans, concept boards, mood boards and other design work. Each module contains many practical exercises as well as exploring underlying theory. Typical practical exercises might include developing a new design idea for a space you have been given, or measuring and creating a floor plan or garden plan (depending on your course).
An important focus of our Diploma courses is the professional portfolio. Each student will begin to develop their portfolio early in the course and will have the opportunity to create a number of designs and other pieces of work that will provide a foundation for their portfolio in the long-term. A strong portfolio is essential when applying for membership of professional bodies, applying for jobs, or marketing your services to new clients.
As always, if you get stuck or feel uncertain about any aspect of your coursework, your tutor is on hand to answer queries or offer advice. Tutors can be contacted at any time if you have any questions or there is anything you are not sure about.
Students can also join our informal student support group for extra advice, help and mutual support. Your tutor will provide information on this on enrolment.
