Art and Design

Ages: 12–15
Term: Autumn, spring
Length: 8 weeks

Overview

Young creatives aged 12–15 are invited to embark on an artistic journey in this dynamic Art and Design course. Across eight Saturdays, students dive boldly into a world of colour, form, and imagination, unlocking their creative potential while exploring an exciting range of disciplines. From expressive drawing and vibrant painting to hands-on sculpture and innovative design projects, the programme fuels experimentation, sparks originality, and celebrates personal style within a supportive, high-energy environment.

To book your place today, simply click Book Now below to be taken to AUB's secure online store, where you can complete your booking. You can also sign up to our newsletter for short course updates.

Course information

Guided by experienced tutors, students explore a rich variety of materials and techniques while mastering essential principles such as composition, colour theory, and creative problem-solving. Each project presents a fresh and engaging challenge, encouraging them to think differently, take creative risks, and grow in confidence. Whether sketching from observation, inventing striking patterns, or experimenting with mixed media, every session is carefully crafted to stretch imaginations and elevate artistic skill.

Beyond practical techniques, the course empowers students to share ideas, refine their work through lively group critiques, and draw inspiration from powerful artworks and exhibitions. By exploring how artists and designers shape their ideas, participants gain valuable insight into the creative process. Ideal for those building a portfolio, preparing for further art study, or simply eager to create, this programme transforms curiosity into capability.

By the end of the course, students leave with a vibrant collection of original artworks, a stronger artistic voice, and the confidence to express themselves with clarity and flair. It’s more than a class – it’s a creative adventure filled with imagination, friendship and the thrill of bringing bold ideas to life.

Hands-on activities covering drawing, painting, modelmaking, and design processes.
Creative briefs to develop personal projects and explore different styles.
Group discussions and critiques to enhance your ideas and confidence.
Exploring established artists and their work for inspiration.

At the end of the course, your young artist will:

Develop skills in drawing, painting, and model-making.
Deepen their understanding of art and design principles, including composition and colour.
Increase their ability to plan and develop their own creative projects.
Build a portfolio of work created during the course.
Gain improved confidence in expressing ideas both visually and verbally.
Receive feedback through informal reviews, peer discussions, and a final presentation of their work to refine their skills and ideas.

Students can request a digital Certificate of Attendance if 100% attendance has been achieved by the end of the course. To request a certificate, please email academy@aub.ac.uk with student name and course completed.

What you need to know

When does it run?

Autumn term 2026

Saturdays 12 and 19 September
Saturdays 3, 17, 24 and 31 October
Saturdays 14 and 21 November

Please note: there are no sessions on 26 September, 10 October or 7 November, due to AUB Open Days.

Spring term 2027

Saturdays 23 and 30 January
Saturdays 6, 13, 20 and 27 February
Saturdays 6 and 13 March

How long is the course?

8 Saturdays

What time are the classes?

09.30–12.30

Who's this course for?

This course has been developed for young artists aged 12–15.

Does my young artist need any qualifications or experience?

No. This is an introductory course, so your young artist doesn't need any previous experience, just buckets of enthusiasm!

I’m not sure if this is suitable for my young artist. Can I speak to someone?

Yes of course! If you'd like to discuss if this course is suitable for your young artist, get in touch with us: email academy@aub.ac.uk or call +44 (0) 1202 363222.

How much does this course cost?

£269

What's included in this price?

All course materials and resources
Everything your young artist will need to take part in the course will be provided by us – no hidden costs!

Classes are practical, so your young artists should wear clothes that you don’t mind getting messy.
Drinks and snacks for break time and duration of class; please ensure snacks don't contain nuts.
It's strongly advised mobile phones, tablets and other valuables aren't brought to class. Any personal possessions are the responsibility of your young artist and AUB won't be liable for any loss or damage.

Text that reads ' start their creative journey'. This overlays three smiley faces.

Book your young artist's place today

Book now

Meet your young artist’s tutor

Woman with long brown hair wearing cream top and silver necklace, smiling at camera against light grey background.

Ilona Skladzien

Ilona is a visual artist based in Poole. In 2018, she completed AUB's MA Fine Art course...

Beyond the course

This could just be the start of your young artist's creative journey! After this course, your young artist could further their artistic skills with alternative Saturday Art School subjects or look forward to the future and the next step(s) in their creative journey by exploring AUB's Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media.