Life Drawing, Shoreditch AM (Aged 15–18)

This course introduces students to a professional studio environment. They will practice observational drawing from unclothed models each week and establish a foundation from which to take their art to the next level.

Life Drawing

Life Drawing, Shoreditch AM (Aged 15–18) Image

Course details

Dates

Saturdays
24 Jan – 28 Mar 2026

Times

10:00 – 13:00

Duration

10 sessions

Fees

£245.00 Concessions available

Location

Shoreditch studios

Tutors

Jake Fisk

Rachel Mercer

Overview

The course introduces students to a multitude of techniques to improve fluency and accuracy; the first session focuses on how draw at an easel and develop hand-eye coordination and speed. Each week students will increase their skill in using line, tone and colour to create the three-dimensional form.

As the course progresses students will develop knowledge and understanding of proportion, foreshortening and how to draw the anatomy. Across the term, students will have the chance to work in an experimental and gestural manner, developing their visual language. 

In the final weeks students are able to consider scale and composition and will have refined not just their figure drawing but their picture-making. Whilst the course focuses on exploring the possibilities with graphite and charcoal, other materials (including ink and pastel) will be introduced throughout.    

Who is it for

This course is particularly useful for those making portfolios for applications to art and design courses at University level. Many universities specially ask for examples of observational drawings. Our tutors can offer help and advice with applications.   

We’re committed to making our courses accessible to all young people with a passion and talent for drawing. 50% and 100% means-tested scholarships are available for each course. Read more and apply for a scholarship on the Young Artists page.

What’s provided

All materials for classes are supplied.

What to bring

Please wear suitable clothes for art making.

Scholarships

We offer a range of discounts. To apply, email admin@royaldrawingschool.org with the required proof. Please wait for confirmation before booking.

Available discounts

NHS Staff: 20%
Send a photo of your NHS staff badge.

Full-time Fine Art BA Students: 75%
Students on design or applied arts degrees may also be eligible. Send your student ID and proof of enrolment.

Art & Design teachers/tutors, from Primary and Secondary to Further and Higher Education: 50%
Send a letter from your headteacher, dean, or head of art department on headed paper.

Jobseekers: 50%
Send a recent DWP or JobCentre Plus letter confirming you receive Jobseeker’s Allowance. Appointment booklets are not accepted.

Disability Benefit Recipients: 50%
Send proof that you currently receive this allowance.

Tower Hamlets and Hackney Residents: 25% (Shoreditch courses only)
Send a copy of your most recent council tax bill.

Tower Hamlets and Hackney Businesses: 25% (Shoreditch courses only)
Send a staff ID, business card or a letter from your line manager.

Over 60s: 10%
Send a photo ID as proof of age.

RDS Alumni: Postgraduate Programme or Foundation Year: 50% off short courses Online Drawing Development Year: 50% off online short courses.

Before you apply

Documents must be dated within the last 6 months (or 12 months for council tax)

Your name must be clearly visible

Accepted file formats: PDF, JPG, DOC or DOCX

All our courses are subsidised.

Tutors

Jake Fisk

Young Artists tutor, Drawing Year Alumnus, 2022

Rachel Mercer

Tutor, Drawing Year Alumna, 2013