10 engaging courses to grow your skills at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College in 2023

Learn all about forensic and criminal investigation; master the art of makeup; and even try music performance and production, with an extensive choice of full-time courses starting in 2023 at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College.

By Kaleigh Pritchard Zoe Gater  |  Published
With everything from sustainable futures to starting your own business, explore the range of full-time courses launching at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College in 2023.

South Gloucestershire and Stroud College is helping people across the county to realise their potential and learn new skills through a variety of full-time courses and study programmes. 

From mastering the art of makeup to creating computer games, discover SoGlos’s pick of 10 engaging courses that people can sign up to at the college in 2023.

Mastering the Art of Makeup at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

This specialist two-year course takes those with a passion for makeup and equips them with the skills and knowledge they need to pursue a professional career in the industry.

Accredited by the University of the Arts London, artists will study a variety of subjects, including avant-garde and high fashion; fantasy hair design; prosthetics and special effects; and theatrical stage makeup. Students will be supported throughout by expert tutors, allowing them to develop their creative practical abilities while forming an understanding of the context of the industry as a whole.

Sustainable Futures at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

The first of its kind, this full-time programme takes the joy of being creative and meshes it with the global need for sustainability.

Throughout this two-year course, students take on projects using traditional artistic methods, such as painting, drawing, photography and sculpture, while producing imaginative work that links to improving the environment. Students will learn how to create art that brings communities together in nature; how to design and grow permaculture spaces; and make use of sustainable materials to better the planet.

Music Performance and Production at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

This Level Two course is a great platform to start on if students are hoping to progress their studies onto the Level 3 Music Technology course, but it also supplies learners with the foundational knowledge of music and music production as a standalone programme.

A variety of skills are covered, including how to set up and use a music studio and industry standard recording and editing software; music theory and composition; as well as performance and musicianship - with everyone encouraged and supported to learn to play at least one musical instrument of their choice.

Creative Computer Games Design at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

Accredited by University of the Arts London, this course offers an entryway into one of the largest global industries in the creative sector - with Britain offering exceptional job opportunities as the market leader in the computer gaming field. 

Students develop their skills in modules including 3D modelling and animation; audio sourcing and utilisation; UI design; and marketing and advertising. With an independent project that brings the course to a close, designers will take on a task designed to simulate the pressures and excitement of working as a professional games designer, giving them the best possible preparation to start to their career.

Beauty Therapy at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

This popular course is aimed at both men and women who have a passion for beauty and want to pursue it as a career.

Perfecting skills such as body massage; the anatomy and physiology of the human body; and microdermabrasion, the two-year programme assesses beauticians through observation and practical assignments, while also getting hands on working with members of the public, who will provide helpful feedback on their treatments. The course fully prepares beauticians with everything they need to thrive in the ever-evolving health and beauty industry.

Forensic and Criminal Investigation at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

With limited places available, students enrolling in the Forensic and Criminal Investigation course will develop a wide range of scientific and investigatory skills including scientific techniques, criminal investigating procedures and forensic genetics, to name just a few.

Each of the course units is assessed by exams, coursework and controlled assessments - plus, students will be required to do a minimum of 36 hours of work experience, where they'll have the chance to explore a field that takes their interest on this fascinating career path. 

Animal Care at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

If you're an animal lover that's passionate about the health and care of our four-legged friends, the Level 2 Animal Care course at SGS College could be for you - offering an introduction to animal handling and behaviour, animal nursing and the care of exotic animals.

Through a series of practical tasks and assessments, written assignments, performance review, work experience, presentations and discussions, students will be provided with the underpinning knowledge and skills required to work in the animal care industry, or to progress into further study.

Business Studies at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

The Level 3 Business Studies course at SGS offers an outstanding starting point for students progression into employment, higher education or even starting their own business.

During the course, SGS's experienced team offers expert support to help students start their own business ventures, gaining the confidence, skills and knowledge to succeed. Those enrolled on the course will learn through participating in interesting ventures, such as raising funds for charity, as well as putting real-time business skills into practice.

Health and Social Care at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

SGS's Level 3 Health and Social Care Certificate and Extended Diploma course is designed to allow students to access higher education upon completion of the programme, or to progress into the workplace.

Learners can pursue their interests in specific areas, studying modules including safeguarding in health and social care; infection prevention and control; psychological perspectives; sociological perspectives; reflective practice; and communication in health and social care.

Carpentry at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

This Level 2 Carpentry course is ideal for those looking to work in the construction industry, specifically as a site carpenter. During a one-year period, students learn a range of practical skills such as how to cut, fasten, carve and design objects made out of wood or other materials - essential for any construction team.  

The programme of study also follows a series of mandatory content, including the principles of construction; structural carpentry; non-structural carpentry prior and following plastering; timber technology; and the use of a circular saw, too. 

To find out more about these or other exciting courses running at SGS College in September, visit at sgscol.ac.uk.

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