Public Programme
The Royal Drawing School offer 5 & 10-week drawing courses each term for adults of all levels. Our courses run during the day and evening, from our studios in Shoreditch, across London, and online. We run three terms a year, and the programme launches are communicated through our enewsletter.
All our tutors are practising artists, forming a faculty of over 100 dedicated and experienced professionals who bring their unique style, insight and inspiration into the studio.
View all Public Programme courses
Our Drawing approach
Our courses focus on four key areas of observational drawing:
- Drawing in the Studio
- Drawing from Art
- Drawing London
- Drawing and Imagination
Each area complements the others, helping you develop your skills and see the world through a new lens.
1-week courses
We offer intensive 1-week courses between term times, during December, Easter period and July/August.
3-month Drawing Intensive
The Drawing Intensive is our three-month part-time course open to any student who wants to progress their artistic practice through a combination of tuition, tutorials and mentoring. Available to study both in person or online, the course is structured yet flexible and is available to book onto in September, January and April.
The Drawing Year
Postgraduate programme
The Drawing Year is our full-time, full-scholarship postgraduate-level programme. It is designed for artists and creatives who wish to engage in creative exploration and critical enquiry, and discover how drawing can further enrich their practice.
30 selected students benefit from 3.5 days of skills-based tuition a week from distinguished teaching and visiting artists, access to their own dedicated studio space, a lecture programme, professional development guidance and the opportunity to exhibit in a series of end-of-year public exhibitions.
Online Drawing Development Year
The Online Drawing Development Year (ODDY) is designed for arts graduates and artists with an evolving studio practice who seek live online drawing tuition and a structured critical dialogue with tutors, mentors, and peers. Spanning three terms, this programme offers sustained guidance and skill development while supporting each student's artistic practice
This flexible, part-time course allows students to curate their own selection of courses each term, ensuring a balance between work, studio practice, and other commitments. Delivered entirely online, it is ideal for those based outside London, international students, or individuals with specific access needs.
Young Artist courses for 10-18 year olds
Our Young Artist courses offer drawing classes for young people aged 10–18 from all backgrounds, focusing on developing skills through observation and hands-on practice. Led by professional artists who are alumni of our postgraduate programme, The Drawing Year, these courses provide expert guidance in drawing forms, techniques, and creative processes. Students build confidence in their artistic abilities while exploring self-expression, problem-solving, and idea generation in a supportive, artist-led environment.
Our programmes foster connection, creativity, and personal growth. Young Artists are encouraged to explore their own ideas and styles, collaborate with peers, and build essential skills in communication and critical thinking. With an emphasis on observational drawing and skills-based teaching, we offer a unique and enriching experience that supports artistic development and mental wellbeing.