For future designers, performers, gamers, makers and dreamers.
Turn your creativity into a career you love.
Our creative community helps you build skills, confidence and connections for life.
Explore how your creativity can become a career worth celebrating at our next open event on 20th November.
And throughout November, we're celebrating Creative Careers Month with a series of inspiring workshops, alumni talks, and hands-on opportunities designed to help students explore future pathways in the creative industries. Find out more below.
Amita Suman
A Performing Arts alumna from our Lewes campus, Amita studied at ESC before going on to star in major Netflix productions
Almayra Shah & Iman Shah
Twins and Performing Arts alumni, Almayra and Iman studied at ESC Lewes and have since featured in high-profile campaigns, including a major Amazon campaign and appearances opening London Fashion Week
Have you ever wondered how the dazzling costumes on the West End stage, the gripping scenes in your favourite series, or the immersive worlds inside a video game come to life?
In the creative industries, imagination sparks innovation and creative energy leads to success.
At East Sussex College, we’re passionate about the creative industries and all the creative careers out there.
The big picture: Why the creative industries matter
In 2023, the UK creative industries contributed around £124 billion to the economy - about 5 % of the UK’s total GVA - and supported 2.4 million jobs, roughly 7 % of all UK employment.
This sector is one of the country’s fastest-growing areas, with a £380 million government investment in June 2025 to drive new skills, innovation and regional growth.
When you choose a creative pathway, you’re not choosing “just art”, you’re stepping into a thriving, future-focused industry with real careers and endless opportunities.
Confidence that creates careers
We help you believe in your creative abilities, developing the confidence to perform, present or pitch anywhere.
Experience that opens doors
Live project briefs through our Charleston Partnership and the Royal Opera House Design Challenge give you real-world experience and a professional portfolio.
Connections that count
Our creative college community connects you with industry, alumni and opportunities nationwide through guest talks, BT 5G immersive classrooms and employer-led projects that bring learning to life.
Tia Wilson
A Fine Art alumna of ESC’s Hastings campus, Tia progressed from A-Level through degree level and is now a practicing artist-in-residence. She recently won the prestigious Emerging Sussex Prize at the Artwave Festival.
FAQ
Q1. What creative courses can I study at ESC?
A: Art & Design, Performing Arts, Music, Media, Digital Design, Esports and more - from Level 2 up to degree pathways.
Q2. How does ESC help me get into uni or drama school?
A: We’ll help you prepare your portfolio or audition pieces, give expert feedback and connect you with higher-level institutions.
Q3. What careers can I go into after a creative course?
A: Our alumni work as actors, designers, illustrators, editors, stage technicians, game developers and creative entrepreneurs. We’ve actually put together the ESCyclopedia of the Creative Industries which is packed with a huge variety of career opportunities available within the creative sector.
Q4. I’m creative but not sure which path fits me - can you help?
A: Absolutely. Our expert tutors and professional careers advisors will help you explore different creative routes so you can find your perfect fit.
Q5. Is studying a creative course a “safe” choice?
A: Yes, the UK creative industries are worth £124 billion and support 2.4 million jobs. Creativity is one of the most in-demand skills for future careers - including AI!
Q6. What support do you offer creative students?
A: You’ll get mentoring, wellbeing support, bursaries and access to specialist facilities and real opportunities that help you grow creatively and professionally.
Our campuses include dedicated performing arts and dance studios, music performance and recording spaces with industry-standard equipment and technology, and spacious art and design studios. We continually invest in the latest creative tools, from cameras, Macs, and editing suites to professional recording and design software, so you can work like a creative professional from day one.
Tim McDonagh
After studying Art & Design at ESC, Tim is now an internationally-recognised illustrator working with brands such as Nike, Apple and Star Wars.
Your [creative] future is closer than you think
In just one visit to East Sussex College you’ll…
Step inside professional studios and see your future workspace.
Meet passionate tutors who’ve worked in the industry.
Try out creative workshops in design, media and performance.
Chat with current students about their experience.
Discover how creative careers are built from imagination and skill.
Learn about scholarships, bursaries and support.
Find out how our alumni made it to Netflix, the West End and beyond.
See how digital creativity is shaping new jobs.
Explore employer-led live projects and real briefs.
Leave inspired, confident and ready for your next step.
Ready to turn creativity into a career?
At East Sussex College, we believe creativity deserves to be nurtured, challenged and celebrated.
Whether you dream of performing under stage lights, designing for film, or shaping the next digital world, your [creative] future is closer than you think.
So if you’re ready to turn your creativity into your career, let’s make it happen.
Joy Horscroft
Joy completed our Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design and has gone on to found Makerie Studio, a London - and New York-based creative workshop producing high-end design for brands and installations.
★★★★★ - “An inspiring production from start to finish – ESC helped me find my spotlight.”
★★★★★ - “Five stars for creative freedom and real-world experience.”
★★★★★ - “A blockbuster experience – the set, the support, the success.”
★★★★★ - “A standing ovation for the tutors – every class felt like opening night.”
★★★★★ - “ESC delivers a masterclass in turning passion into profession.”
Our creative partnerships:
A hub of modernist art and literature, where students explore creativity.
A contemporary art gallery in Brighton offering access to thought-provoking exhibitions and community-led creative projects.
A national network that champions and supports the UK’s creative industries, connecting businesses, educators, and innovators to drive growth, collaboration, and opportunities across the creative sector.
An iconic modernist arts venue supporting student engagement in live music, design, and exhibition events.
A globally recognised performance venue where creativity meets world-class live entertainment.
A world leader in performance and design, offering ESC students opportunities to take part in national challenges and creative projects.
Home to a nationally significant art collection and innovative exhibitions that connect students with professional curators and artists.
An internationally renowned opera house giving students a glimpse into the craftsmanship and production behind major performances.
One of the oldest working theatres in the country, inspiring performing arts students through professional productions and workshops.
‘Learning Together’ is our partnership with the University of Sussex offering access to masterclass sessions and lectures in a wide range of degree courses - including creative subjects!
We have our own range of creative degree programmes, validated by the University of East Anglia (UEA) - everything from Fine Art to Music Production and Creative Recording.
A dynamic coastal gallery providing students with insight into contemporary visual arts and curatorial practice.