Business Details
Creative Arts Education in Cambridge
Established as a dedicated creative and performing arts institution, Csvpa (CSVPA) has cultivated a reputation for excellence in arts education since its inception. With campuses in Cambridge and London, we provide Diploma, Foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses across Art & Design, Fashion, Music, and Performing Arts. Our teaching philosophy prioritises creativity, critical thinking, and practical skill development, preparing students for professional careers in the creative industries. Industry-standard studios and equipment ensure students gain hands-on experience, while our faculty of experienced professionals fosters innovation and contextual understanding. Through partnerships with institutions like the London College of Fashion and collaborative projects with organisations such as the Whipple Museum, we bridge academic learning with real-world application.Our graduates consistently achieve national recognition, with recent cohorts securing top honours at Graduate Fashion Week and outstanding university offers. The curriculum integrates trend analysis, research methodologies, and networking opportunities to develop well-rounded creative professionals. Student support extends to welfare services, accommodation guidance, and career development, ensuring holistic growth. With a global student body and a focus on international industry connections, we nurture a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Our commitment to educational excellence is evidenced by consistent high performance in the National Student Survey and numerous award nominations.
Services
Performing Arts
Fashion Design
Graphic Design
Music Production
Illustration
Visual Communication
Drama Foundation
Musical Theatre
Portfolio Preparation
Summer School Courses
Highlights and features
- We offer industry-standard facilities in Cambridge and London for practical creative training
- Our faculty includes experienced professionals with strong industry connections
- We provide career-focused education from diploma to postgraduate levels
- Students benefit from collaborative projects with cultural institutions
- Proven track record of graduate success in national and international competitions
What people say
Outstanding graduate success
Industry-standard facilities
Expert faculty
Creative environment
Strong career support
Services
Performing Arts
Our Performing Arts programmes develop technical proficiency and creative expression through comprehensive training in acting, musical theatre, and performance techniques. Students access professional-standard rehearsal spaces and industry mentorship to build versatile skill sets. The curriculum combines classical training with contemporary performance practices to prepare graduates for diverse careers in theatre, film, and live performance.
Fashion Design
Fashion Design courses cover garment construction, pattern cutting, and textile innovation with emphasis on sustainable practices and industry trends. Students create professional portfolios through hands-on projects and collaborations with industry partners. The programme prepares graduates for roles in design studios, fashion houses, and independent label development.
Graphic Design
Graphic Design education focuses on typography, branding, and digital media through practical projects mirroring real-world design challenges. Industry-standard software training combines with conceptual development to produce versatile designers. Graduates emerge with portfolios demonstrating strategic thinking and technical expertise for advertising, publishing, and digital agencies.
Music Production
Music Production courses teach studio recording, sound design, and composition using professional-grade equipment and software. Students gain practical experience in mixing, mastering, and live sound through collaborative projects. The programme prepares graduates for careers in recording studios, live events, and digital content creation.
Portfolio Preparation
Portfolio Preparation courses guide students through creating competitive applications for art and design university programmes. Expert tutors provide technical workshops and one-on-one feedback to refine visual presentation and conceptual development. The three-week intensive programme ensures portfolios meet international admission standards for top institutions.
People
Karin Askham
Rector
Professor Karin Askham leads academic strategy and quality assurance across CSVPA's creative programmes. With extensive experience in arts education leadership, she champions innovation in curriculum design and industry partnerships. Her vision drives the institution's commitment to nurturing creative excellence.
Robert Niu
Chair of Governors
Robert Niu oversees institutional governance and strategic direction as Chair of Governors. His leadership ensures CSVPA maintains high educational standards while expanding global opportunities for students. He works closely with industry partners to enhance graduate employability and institutional impact.
Dennic Lo
Fashion Pathway Leader
Dennic Lo specialises in fashion education with particular expertise in foundation and undergraduate programme development. He mentors students through technical workshops and industry projects, ensuring curriculum relevance to contemporary fashion practices and emerging trends in sustainable design.
Kevin Hart
Provost
Professor Kevin Hart oversees academic operations and faculty development at CSVPA. His leadership ensures consistent delivery of high-quality education across all creative disciplines. He promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and maintains strong connections with the wider arts education sector.
Elizabeth Nantais
Dean of Student Experience
Elizabeth Nantais leads student support services and musical theatre pathway development. She ensures comprehensive welfare provision while maintaining artistic standards in performance training. Her work focuses on creating inclusive learning environments that nurture both personal and professional growth.
Questions
What creative disciplines does CSVPA specialise in?
We specialise in Art & Design, Fashion, Music, and Performing Arts across diploma, foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels.
Are there opportunities for industry collaboration?
Yes, we partner with institutions like the London College of Fashion and host collaborative projects with cultural organisations.
What facilities are available to students?
Students access industry-standard studios, rehearsal spaces, and technical equipment across our Cambridge and London campuses.
How does CSVPA support international students?
We provide visa guidance, English language support, accommodation assistance, and cultural integration programmes for international students.
What career outcomes do graduates achieve?
Our graduates regularly secure places at top universities and win industry awards, with recent successes at Graduate Fashion Week.
Are there short-term summer courses available?
Yes, we offer one to three-week summer courses in creative disciplines including fashion, film making, and portfolio preparation.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Amilia Jacobs
Sep 26, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
I am having a really fun time at the College and am back for my second year. The staff have lots of industry contacts and I am really enjoying learning so many things. I made friends quickly and easily, I have never been in a school where everyone is so helpful and caring
I am having a really fun time at the College and am back for my second year. The staff have lots of industry contacts and I am really enjoying learning so many things. I made friends quickly and easily, I have never been in a school where everyone is so helpful and caring
Taneshe
Aug 16, 2021
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A university with small class sizes which means lots of 1 to 1 support. Great facillities and based in a beautiful city.
Luca Dibene
Aug 10, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Amazing staff and teaching - I have really really course. I have made lots of friends and the personal one to one teaching has been amazing!!!!
Amazing staff and teaching - I have really really course. I have made lots of friends and the personal one to one teaching has been amazing!!!!
Sarah Cound
Oct 06, 2020
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I don't know about the teaching here, but I do know that their site opposite Aldi on Histon Road is absolutely flithy. A health hazard and revolting to look at.
Manami Mukherjee
Mar 26, 2018
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One of the best fashion college to enhance your skills and make your bright career ahead. Amazing faculties with best curriculum for all the modules.
Kateryna Logvynenko
Nov 11, 2017
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Have the warmest memories of studying here. Foundation was great, and my special gratitude to Jo Fernihough, Rupert Morgan, Renata Grant, Mandy Davies Kent, Andy Luetchford and Ben Maughan - you are to remember and be missed most! Well structured course, challenging - gave a good understanding of "how things work". Cheers from Central Saint Martins xx
John Smith
Jan 19, 2017
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Would give this school a zero if possible. DO NOT ATTEND! Upon arrival, for a summer program, no information was given as to were to go. When calling the school, the lady was very unprofessional. On the first day, no special information was given to the students, such as what time class starts or even a schedule. Everything was EXTREMELY vague. For the price tag (2400 pounds) everything was dull and boring. Accommodation is very small, which is understandable. The food is quite plain and tasteless. Worst summer experience ever. Do not waste your money.
