Winchester School of Art - Student View

Small but expanding and forward-looking college. Set in beautiful surroundings on the banks of the River Itchen, very close to the centre of Winchester. Three large new buildings house the library, fashion, textiles and the textile conservation centre. The original 60s building houses fine art, textile design and the computing facilities. Car parking is an increasing problem, with no places for students and very expensive local car parks.

Student village, Erasmus Park, about 5 minutes' walk, has shared houses of 10 people (with ensuite bathrooms). Otherwise accommodation is expensive - and limited due to large student population in Winchester. Students mainly live in self-catering flats, houses and lodgings.

Many part-time tutors are working artists and have good links with London studios. Good work placements and foreign exchanges for students on many courses. College has its own studio at the Barcelona Art School and access to a cottage in Cornwall for drawing excursions. Library has state-of-the-art facilities and access to the internet.

SU provides regular entertainments in form of live bands, guest DJs (excellent venue with bar, dancefloor. DJ stage, chill out room); also parties, pool, cheap beer - definitely the place to be!

A friendly and fun atmosphere, open to suggestions and comments. But as a relatively small place, everyone knows everything on the grapevine.