Hi! I'd really like some advice on foundation courses (I can already tell this is quite a heated topic on this thread!)
I've received an unconditional offer for the Fine Art BA at Kent, and a place on Loughborough's foundation course, after they reviewed my portfolios.
I'm still waiting on Edinburgh, Reading and UCL for degree courses and Central Saint Martin's for a foundation.
If I get offers from Reading or UCL, I really want to accept them, because I love the unis and the courses they offer, but if I don't get offers from them, I'm considering UAL and Loughborough's foundations, even though I'm quite keen on Kent.
Could someone that's done a foundation please answer some of my questions? I'd really really appreciate it!
1. How are they taught? Is it big group work, or small tutorials?
2. Is there more focus on your skills and technique, rather than the development of concepts/ideas?
3. Did your foundation course help you choose the specific art degree course that you wanted? (e.g. Graphic design/Fine Art/Ceramics etc.) - and did it change your mind on what medium you originally thought you were good at/enjoyed the most?
4. Is there a big focus on tutor-led development, or was it very self-directed?
5. What was your favourite aspects of the course/what made it beneficial for you?
6. Why did you decide to take a foundation course, and why do you think it help you develop better than your a level did?
I like the fact that during a foundation I wouldn't have to worry about my other subjects, like during my a levels. It's also really encouraging that the course itself is free (apart from accomodation/living expenses etc.)
I originally applied to foundation courses as a 'backup plan' incase I didn't get onto any degree courses, but now that I've heard so much good stuff about them I'm unsure!
Any help/advice would be much appreciated - Thanks!