Build Your Portfolio

<p dir="ltr">Whether you already have work to build on or you’re not sure where to start, this course is designed to help you feel more confident, inspired and prepared.<br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">During the course, you’ll take part in practical workshops across a range of creative subjects, including:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Textiles</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Animation and Games</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Photography and Media</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Painting and Drawing</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Game Asset Creation</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Textile Printing</p></li></ul> <p dir="ltr">You’ll also:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Learn how to curate and organise your portfolio</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Get advice on presenting your ideas and creative process</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Have your <strong>3D work professionally photographed</strong></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Meet other creative students with similar interests</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Build confidence in discussing your work</p></li></ul>

<p dir="ltr">This course is for <strong>15–18 year olds</strong> interested in studying a <strong>creative subject at higher education or university level</strong>.</p> <p dir="ltr">To apply, you must:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Be aged 15–18</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Be interested in studying a creative qualification</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Be able to attend all days of the course in person</p></li></ul> <p dir="ltr">Places are limited and demand is high, so we recommend applying as soon as possible when applications are opened.<br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">Our next Build Your Portfolio course will take place in Autumn 2026.</p> <p dir="ltr">Please fill out our expression of interest form below to be the first to know when the course dates are confirmed and it is opened for applications.<br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">We know travel costs can add up, so we’re offering up to <strong>£80 towards travel expenses</strong> for students attending our on-campus events. <a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/posts/claim-up-to-80-when-you-come-to-visit-us2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to learn more.</a><br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">As part of Build Your Portfolio, you may have the opportunity to work towards an Arts Award Bronze qualification.</p> <p dir="ltr">Arts Award Bronze is a nationally recognised Level 1 qualification, accredited by Trinity College London, that helps you develop your creativity, communication and leadership skills. It’s a great addition to your personal statement, CV or future applications.</p> <p dir="ltr">To achieve the award, you’ll build a portfolio of evidence showing your creative development, including:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Taking part in an arts activity</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Attending and reviewing an arts event</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Researching an artist or creative practitioner</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Sharing an arts skill with others</p></li></ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Please note, achieving Arts Award Bronze may require some additional work outside of the course.</strong><br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">A creative portfolio is a collection of work that demonstrates your skills, ideas and creative potential.</p> <p dir="ltr">It can include finished pieces, experiments, sketches and works in progress. A strong portfolio doesn’t just show the final outcome, it shows your thinking and how your ideas develop.</p> <p dir="ltr">Your portfolio could include:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Drawings, paintings, photography or moodboards</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Animation, film, music or digital designs</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">3D work, fabric samples, costume or prop ideas</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Written work such as essays, scripts or storyboards</p></li></ul> <p>We recommend including <strong>up to 20 pieces of work</strong>, focusing on quality over quantity.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Be selective and reflective</strong><br />Choose work that tells your story and highlights your interests, personality and strengths.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Show versatility</strong><br />Include a variety of work to demonstrate different skills, techniques and approaches.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Focus on quality</strong><br />Your strongest work will make the biggest impact.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Include your process</strong><br />Sketchbooks, experiments and unfinished ideas can be just as valuable as finished outcomes.</p> <p><strong>Organise it thoughtfully</strong><br />Present your work clearly and lead with your strongest pieces.</p>