New Meaning Training

Creative Art & Design

Courses at NMT Berkshire, Courses at NMT Milton Keynes, Courses at NMT Stratford-upon-avon

At New Meaning Training (NMT), we believe that creativity is a powerful tool for personal growth and self-expression. Our Creative Art & Design programme offers learners the opportunity to explore a wide range of artistic skills and techniques in a supportive and inspiring environment. Whether you’re passionate about 2D, 3D, or 4D Art & Design, drawing in mixed mediums, sketchbook making, painting, textiles, sculpture, photography, printmaking, mosaic & collage, or art in social context, there’s something for everyone. Each year, we tailor our curriculum to match the unique tastes and abilities of our students, ensuring that no two year-groups are the same.

We welcome young people aged 16–18 (and up to 25 with an Education, Health and Care Plan, EHCP). Regardless of previous experience, all you need is an interest in art and a willingness to dive in and get creative. Our inclusive environment encourages learners to develop new skills, build confidence, and explore their creative side. From foundational techniques to advanced projects, our programme helps you develop a broad variety of creative skills.

Many learners who have Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs find that this hands-on programme is particularly beneficial. Creative art and design provide an expressive outlet that can help manage feelings like anxiety.

On our Creative Art & Design programme, you’ll learn new techniques, work in small groups and work independently on projects, all providing plenty of opportunities to make friends and collaborate with others whilst allowing you to explore your creativity at your own pace. This balance ensures a rich and varied learning experience, where you can enjoy both social interaction and personal reflection.

If you’re ready to unleash your creativity and embark on an artistic journey, come and be a part of our vibrant programme at NMT. We provide the tools and support you need to succeed, making every learning experience unique and exciting.

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Training & Personal Development (SET-PD)
Courses at NMT Berkshire, Courses at NMT Milton Keynes, Courses at NMT Stratford-upon-avon
2.5 days a week
Pink & Blue graphic printing

Common Questions

How big are the classes?

Classes are kept small — typically around 10 learners — to make sure everyone gets the support and attention they need. This makes for a much less overwhelming environment than a mainstream college.

Is this course suitable for learners with an EHCP?

Yes. All of our courses are designed with SEND learners in mind and we work closely with local authorities and schools to support EHCP-funded placements. We’re experienced in meeting a range of learning needs.

Can this course lead to further study or employment?

Yes. While the focus is on building real skills and confidence, completing a course here can open doors to further qualifications, supported employment, volunteering, or progression onto another course with us.

How does the referral process work?

There isn’t just one way to join New Meaning Training.

Some young people are referred by schools, SENCOs, local authorities, careers advisers, youth support services, social care teams, or other professionals involved in their support. Others come to us because a parent, carer, or the young person themselves has found us and wants to explore whether we’re the right fit.

Anyone can start the conversation. The first step is usually completing an application form or contacting our team for an informal discussion about the young person’s needs, interests, and goals.

If New Meaning Training feels like the right next step, we’ll guide families and professionals through the funding and admissions process. The route to funding varies depending on a young person’s age, circumstances, location, and whether they have an EHCP, so we can’t guarantee every application will result in a place being offered.

We’ll always be open and honest about the options available and help families understand the next steps.

Who funds the place on the course?

Funding arrangements vary depending on the young person’s age, circumstances, and location. Places may be funded through a local authority as part of an EHCP, through a school or commissioning organisation, or through national 16–19 further education funding. In some cases, families or other organisations may choose to self-fund a place.

Our team can talk you through the options available and help you understand which funding route is most appropriate for your situation.

Does the course include both theory and practical work?

Absolutely. We believe young people learn best when they can get stuck in.

Most of our courses combine practical, hands-on activities with the knowledge and understanding that sits behind them. That means learners can develop real skills, build confidence and experience the satisfaction of applying what they’ve learned in meaningful ways.

After all, some of the best learning happens by doing.

What kind of learner is this course suited to?

Our courses are designed for young people who benefit from a smaller, more supportive learning environment — particularly those who find large mainstream college settings difficult to manage. Learners with EHCPs, additional learning needs, or those who need more time to build confidence are very welcome.

What age range is this course for?

Our programmes are primarily aimed at young people aged 16–19, but there isn’t always a simple age-based answer.

Many learners with an EHCP continue their education with us beyond the age of 19, and we can support eligible young people up to the age of 25.

Occasionally, we also work with younger learners where there is a clear need for specialist support and an appropriate referral pathway.

Every young person’s journey is different, so if you’re not sure whether a programme is suitable, get in touch. We’ll be happy to help you explore the options.

Common Questions

Does the young person use art or creative activity as a coping or communication tool?

If creativity is already part of how a young person expresses themselves or manages their wellbeing, this course can be a strong fit – and we can be mindful of how we approach more challenging tasks.

Does the young person have an EHCP?

This determines funding route and how long they can stay with us. Learners with an EHCP can study full-time up to age 25 as long as the plan remains active. Without an EHCP learners are funded through standard FE (E1) and can study up to age 18 only. Beyond 19 without an EHCP requires private funding.

How old is the young person?

Most courses are open to learners aged 16-18. With an EHCP, learners can continue up to 25. Without an EHCP, the upper limit is 18, with no publicly funded route beyond 19.

Is the young person’s EHCP current and maintained by the issuing local authority?

We need the plan to be active and naming or considering New Meaning as a placement. If a review or amendment is pending it is worth flagging this early so we can engage with the process at the right point.

Has the young person expressed any interest in a particular subject area or type of learning?

We offer courses in Community Care, Computing, Construction and Multiskills, Creative Art and Design, Hair and Beauty, Motor Mechanics, Retail and Hospitality, Sports, and Transition Support. There are no formal entry requirements, but a referral is more likely to succeed if the young person has some motivation toward the area.

Are there any known SEMH needs or emotional barriers to learning?

New Meaning works with young people with a wide range of SEMH needs. Sharing this information upfront helps us plan the right level of support, timetable, and staffing from day one.

Are there any safeguarding concerns or existing plans we should be aware of?

Any active safeguarding plans, CP plans, or looked-after status should be declared at referral stage. This does not prevent a placement but allows us to ensure the right protocols are in place.

Does the young person have a current Education Health and Care Plan that includes Section F provision for further education?

Section F sets out the educational provision required. If it does not currently name or describe further education provision, an EHCP review or amendment may be needed before a funded placement can be agreed.

Has the young person been involved in choosing New Meaning or this course area?

Young person involvement in the referral process significantly improves outcomes. Where possible, we encourage visits or taster sessions before a formal placement begins.

What has the young person’s previous education experience looked like?

We carry out initial assessments on enrolment, but knowing what has and has not worked previously helps us plan effectively. This includes school refusal history, exclusions, previous alternative provision, or gaps in education.

Motor Mechanics
Sports