17.07.06
University education made more accessible

A new university short course at Cornwall College has opened the door to higher education for a group of mature students. The degree-level short course in drawing, taken from the Fine Art Foundation Degree, also available at the College, has provided a great taste of what it's like to study art at higher-level, without students having to commit to a full-time course.

Nichola Kite, a 35-year-old full-time mum from Penryn, has gained in confidence since completing the course. "I wasn't sure if I could do a university-level qualification but since doing the Bitesize course I'm now planning on applying for a place on a full degree course," she said.

Course tutor Michael Broughton added, "Our students have taken a lot from this short course: a range of drawing skills, technical and theoretical knowledge as well as a wider comprehension of the arts world through a series of gallery visits. I've seen them gain confidence in their own skills and ability as artists. It's very rewarding to be able to offer an introduction to art, to see the students develop their own style, and discover what kind of artist they want to be."

The Drawing from Life course is one of a range of Bitesize university courses being offered at Cornwall College. The courses are validated by the University of Plymouth, each lasting between 10 and 20 weeks. They can cost as little as £25, making university education in Cornwall both accessible and affordable.

"The Bitesize project is proving to be a great success for adult learners in Cornwall," said John Latham, CEO and Principal of Cornwall College. "Many people would like to return to education and degree-level study, but are not sure of the route to take or lack confidence in their abilities. With the Bitesize courses you don't have to commit long term and the course is a qualification in its own right, whether or not you decide to progress onto a full-time degree. Indeed, some of our students have decided to mix and match the various Bitesize courses to create their own unique higher qualification."

For further information on any of the new Bitesize university courses, please contact Customer Services at Cornwall College on 01209 616161 or email enquiries@cornwall.ac.uk.

Cornwall College is a founding partner in the Combined Universities in Cornwall (CUC), a unique initiative to promote regional economic regeneration through higher education. The CUC has investment from the European Union (Objective One), the South West Regional Development Agency and the Higher Education Funding Council for England, with support from Cornwall County Council.

For further information please contact Sarah Plant at Cornwall College on 01209 616100 or email sarah.plant@cornwall.ac.uk.

The Objective One Programme for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has invested in the Combined Universities in Cornwall (CUC) project, both Phase 1 and Phase 2 through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the European Social Fund (ESF). Cornwall College is a partner in the CUC.

Editor's notes:

Foundation degrees offer the solution to the 'work or study' dilemma, by providing a degree qualification in a practical, industry focused manner, delivered in a way that suits the needs of the working professional. They are equivalent to a higher national diploma and can be converted in the full bachelor's degree with a further year's study.

Cornwall College delivers higher education across its eight main campus sites throughout Cornwall, including degree, foundation degree, higher national diplomas and professional diplomas.

Clare Morgan
Media Relations Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Mobile: 07973 813647
Telephone: 01872 223439

cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk

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