dd1 set on doing an Art level 3 diploma at college but...

[AstridPeth]

She is currently in year 11 and predicted the equivalent of a high c for her Art G.C.S.E . The college have seen her portfolio and have offered her a place considering she gets the grades predicted. I read some where that really to progress well in art she should be looking at achieving at least a B in art at G.C.S.E level.
I should say that she has also taken Textiles which she is predicted the equivalent of an A in and creative crafts which she is predicted a distinction for. The first year of the course gives her scope to try a variety of art techniques including photography which wasn't offered at her school and she is very keen to try. Textiles is also on offer but although she is predicted an A she says she really hasn't enjoyed it that much. She is adamant that this is the course for her...should I be worried about her predicted G.C.S.E grade tho?

The grade B for progressing well would apply for Fine Art A level rather than a BTEC or other level 3 course. If she achieves high grades in Textiles and creative design as predicted she should be fine.

PS My dd in Y13 has taken a creative arts subject without taking Art GCSE (did Product design) and it's been fine.

I was awful at art in school - I mean truly terrible. Just couldn't paint or draw. It was always passable but not what you'd look at and say "you've got a future in a creative field".
Now, I'm a successful high end jewellery designer/maker. Studied design, studied silversmith - all without grades from high school art. I went into the field in a roundabout kind if way, but once I got there, I was good. She might not be making the grade you wanton high school art, but once she's out of there and doing a course she really wants, then she could flourish. Don't be put off by a school grade. Might be an idea for her to think of some back ups she would like, but there's no reason she can't flourish in a creative field.

I understand your reservations, but if she's passionate about what she wants to do, I think you have to let her go for it. The course does sound good as it offers different techniques. Her portfolio is obviously good enough for the course, it might not be a B grade or above, but it'll give her chance to improve and get more experience in the arts which she clearly enjoys.

DD is doing A levels and her Sixth Form have said we totally have to let them decide on their next step as it's them who'll have to do it, and it's better it's their mistake and not yours, and they had a go.

In Art your portfolio matters, if they have seen it and want her then that's fine.