#London #United Kingdom #NABA #Diego Mattiolo #London campus

Overview

The Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA) has taken a significant step towards strengthening its foothold in the UK with the announcement of its new London campus led by Diego Mattiolo as the School Director and Head of Education. Slated to open in the academic year 2026/2027, this expansion reflects NABA's commitment to promoting creative education in response to the growing demand in cultural and creative industries.

The Appointment of Diego Mattiolo

Diego Mattiolo comes to NABA with a wealth of international experience exceeding a decade in higher education management. His background equips him to effectively lead multicultural teams and foster dynamic, student-centered learning environments. With ties to the British educational landscape, his leadership will be instrumental in establishing the new campus within one of the world's most vibrant settings for creativity and the arts. As Mattiolo emphasizes, the vision for NABA London is to create an internationally rich learning atmosphere infused with Italian care and craftsmanship, underpinned by an inclusive, project-focused approach that directly connects students with industry professionals.

Unique Educational Approach

NABA's educational model is deeply rooted in its heritage from its Milan and Rome campuses, distinguishing the London offering through the globally recognized Italian expertise in design, fashion, and visual arts. This heritage embodies not just cultural legacy but also a practice-oriented approach, where research, experimentation, and creation converge. NABA's motto encapsulates this mission: "Through artistic intelligence, we help people design a new tomorrow.”

Starting in September 2026, the London campus will introduce accredited undergraduate programs in Design, Fashion Design, and Fashion Marketing Management, in collaboration with Regent's University London. Building on an interdisciplinary foundation, the curriculum emphasizes a project-based, hands-on methodology, aligning with the 'learning by doing' philosophy.

Learning Experience and Facilities

To ensure an intimate educational environment, NABA will maintain small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and meaningful interaction with instructors. The practical elements of education will be bolstered through dedicated spaces such as the Design Lab, Fashion Design Lab, and Textile Knitwear Lab. These facilities will enable students to engage with real-world projects, hone practical skills, and adopt professional dynamics while learning alongside industry leaders.

NABA London is strategically located in Here East, a thriving ecosystem that integrates education, industry, and research. This context will enhance students’ educational experiences by providing opportunities for collaboration and interdisciplinary projects within a supportive community.

Accessibility and Scholarships

In London, NABA underscores its commitment to merit-based education, offering scholarships of up to £7,000 to talented students who demonstrate commitment and ability. These scholarships will provide tuition fee reductions for the first year and may extend into the subsequent years, contingent upon maintaining academic progression and performance standards set by the Academy.

NABA is on the verge of a significant educational evolution in the UK market, cementing its role in fostering creativity and innovation in the arts sector. With Diego Mattiolo at the helm, the London campus is poised to redefine art and design education, connecting students to the professional world like never before. For more information, visit www.naba.ac.uk.