Young Artists courses invite young people aged 10 to 18 to develop their drawing and observational skills through creative exploration and hands-on practice.
Our term-time and holiday courses use observational drawing to develop students’ technical skills, creative thinking, and self-expression.
Courses are available in multiple locations and online. All courses are taught by professional artists — alumni of our postgraduate programme, The Drawing Year — with extensive experience teaching young people.
Young Artists will
Build strong technical skills through hands-on practice.
Develop their own ideas and artistic voice with tutor support.
Strengthen critical thinking, problem solving, and collaboration.
Gain skills to support a wide range of creative subjects including arts, design, architecture, and science.
Build portfolios to complement students' studies at GCSE and A level, as well as supporting applications to further and higher education.
Gain confidence, build friendships, and benefit from a supportive, artist-led environment.
Young Artists courses fill quickly
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Scholarships
The School is committed to making all courses affordable and available to all, regardless of background or circumstance.
We offer 50% and 100% means-tested scholarships to students with a passion for drawing and a commitment to regular attendance.
Please read "How to apply" below for the guidance.
Scholarship criteria
100% scholarships are available to all students, including those attending a private or comprehensive state school and receiving Free School Meals.
50% scholarships are available if a parent or guardian receives Universal Credit.
If you have extenuating circumstances, please do apply. Simply include a note to your application.
Please note: scholarships apply to term courses only.
How are places awarded?
If your application is successful, you will be added to our general scholarship database. At the start of each term you will be asked to select your course preferences, however please note that this does not guarantee a place on a termly course.
All courses are allocated on a first come first serve basis. If you are successful in securing a place on a course we will email you to confirm which course your Young Artist will be attending.
To nominate a student (aged 11–18), contact youngartists@royaldrawingschool.org. We understand you may not be able to share proof of benefits — please include two photos of the student’s drawings with your nomination.
Please consider donating
We are proud that 50% of our places for young artists are supported by bursaries - making it possible for aspiring creatives from all backgrounds to develop their drawing skills. Your donation helps us continue offering this transformative opportunities.
