Two weeks ago we went to Peckham for an open day about CCW's foundation course. These 3 are separate universities which have joined to form one foundation course, based at the Camberwell building. This post is two weeks late because essentially we weren't planning on doing a write up. But, as there seems to be very little information to help us creatives, we thought that maybe someone might stumble across this post and find it useful. These are our general impressions of the open day, so try and find out other people's opinions for a more well rounded overview.
Facts
The acceptance to application rate is 1:3
Everyone who meets entry requirements will have a portfolio review
Applications close on 31st January 2014
The open day itself was helpful in giving the facts, but the absence of a tour of the small building, or even facilities encapsulated CCW's nature. The college lived up to its reputation, and the professor emitted an aura of authority and lack of warmth. CCW is very much a place of independence, he emphasized the word adult frequently. With this hands off approach in teaching artists and designers to think for themselves, it's the perfect place if you love being off the leash. For those who might need a little more guidance and nurturing, CCW is not the place for you. Saying this, as we took a tour by ourselves, we were welcomed by one of the many classrooms to ask questions. This tutor appeared very friendly, and one girl even gave us her time so we could ask questions. She supported the rumour that, at CCW work is very much independent and tutor time is fought for. I asked one girl why she would choose CCW over say, Kingston or Slade, and she simply replied "reputation". With the resounding knowledge of this, it was no surprise that CCW did not need to invest in larger classrooms or more facilities (whether they had any we do not know...we didn't seem to find any) to impress and attract students.
The building itself is dedicated to the whole of the foundation course. As mentioned, it was quite small and the segregation meant it was unlike your typical university environment. There is a Camberwell campus right by the building, where I'm assuming you can use the main facilities, but I hear that having to share means that foundation years do not get priority. The classes reminded me of primary school, doors were wooden with long windows. My friend particularly liked this layout, that and how relaxed the classes seemed. I'm not sure if I'd like working so close to people though.
On the plus side, there was a delicious Vietnamese cafe with this beautiful vintage-esque sofa! And a Chinese restaurant close by, with a few coffee shops scattered about.
So, CCW's course is very competitive due to its reputable name (being part of UAL) and there was no effort to encourage students to apply. The rooms were small and cramped but the students and one teacher we met were very friendly compared to the man giving the talk. There was a really creative energy that covered the building, students were sitting sketching right in the middle of the corridor which was a nice, active vibe. But, even if the place wasn't as attractive and compelling as others, I would recommend applying as just having their name on your personal statement and CV's could get you places. Because, at the end of the day, it is a year where we need to be independent, and having a lack of tutor time may push us into growing and bettering our skills. I personally do like to have rapport with tutors though!
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