Artist and lecturer Julie Read has launched a new website, www.portfolio-oomph.com , specifically designed to support young people who wish to apply to art college. The site includes advice and guidance on portfolio preparation, video interviews with artists, designers and makers, and links to information on possible careers in the creative industries.

Also available is a range of e-books which provide in-depth guidance on subjects such as how to present work, how to choose the right subject and college and how to do well at interview. e-books cost between £2.50 and £10.95 and a range of e-courses is promised soon.