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.
COBHAM CREATIVE COMMUNITY
The International Foundation Year in Art & Design sits at the heart of the Cobham Creative Community, a department defined by collaboration, curiosity and shared creative ambition. Students become part of a vibrant artistic environment where ideas are exchanged openly, disciplines intersect naturally and individuality is celebrated. Learning extends beyond the studio, with students encouraged to engage in dialogue, critique and collaboration, developing confidence not only as independent makers but as active members of a creative community. This sense of belonging and shared purpose underpins the Cobham Hall ethos, ensuring students are supported, challenged and inspired as they begin their journey into higher education and 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:
Entry requirements
To apply for the International Art & Design Foundation, you must meet the following criteria:
A recognised upper-secondary school qualification equivalent to GCSEs, AS Levels, or the first year of A Levels, depending on the national education system
English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5
Basic digital literacy skills, including the ability to navigate a file system, use standard productivity software, and engage with online learning platforms
A demonstrable interest in a creativity-related subject(s). This can be assessed by submitting one or more of the following pieces of evidence:
Short creative portfolio (5-10 pieces) or a visual journal
Written or video statement explaining the interest in art/design
FAQs
What is the International Foundation Year in Art & Design?
The Foundation Year is a one-year preparatory course designed for international students who wish to progress to undergraduate study in art, design, fashion or related creative subjects at UK universities.
Who is the course for?
The course is aimed at international students who have completed secondary education and want to strengthen their academic English, creative skills and portfolio before starting a UK degree.
What subjects are covered on the course?
Students study a broad creative curriculum including fine art, design, visual communication, photography, and fashion/textiles, alongside academic skills and English for study.
Why study the Foundation Year at Cobham Hall?
Cobham Hall offers a highly successful Art Department, specialist creative facilities, small class sizes, and individual portfolio support within a supportive boarding school environment.
What makes this course different from other Foundation programmes?
The course combines strong creative teaching with academic preparation and guaranteed university progression routes through our partnership with NCUK.
What is NCUK and why is it important?
NCUK is an internationally recognised education provider offering guaranteed progression routes to leading UK universities upon successful completion of the Foundation Year.
Which universities can students progress to?
Students can progress to a wide range of UK universities offering art, design and fashion-related degrees through NCUK partner institutions, subject to meeting progression requirements.
Is fashion and textiles part of the course?
Yes. Fashion and textiles form a key specialist pathway within the programme, reflecting strong global demand and growth in this sector.
Do students need a portfolio to apply?
A small portfolio or examples of creative work are helpful but not always required. Students receive structured support to develop a strong portfolio during the course.
What level of English is required?
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5. English language support is integrated into the programme to help students progress confidently.
How are students assessed?
Assessment is through coursework, creative projects, portfolio development and academic skills tasks rather than final examinations.
What qualification do students receive?
Successful students receive an internationally recognised NCUK International Foundation Year qualification, enabling progression to undergraduate study.
When does the course start and how long does it last?
The course runs for one academic year and begins in September.
Is boarding available?
Yes. Full boarding is included in the fees, providing a safe, supportive and fully immersive environment for international students at Cobham Hall.
What support is available for international students?
Students benefit from academic mentoring, pastoral care, university guidance, and support with settling into UK education and boarding life.
How do students apply?
Applications can be made directly to Cobham Hall or through NCUK’s international network of approved agents.
What are the fees?
Fees vary depending on individual circumstances. Full details are available from the Admissions team.
What happens after the Foundation Year?
Students progress to undergraduate degrees in art, design, fashion or related subjects at UK universities, supported by a strong academic foundation and developed portfolio.