Simply Drawing!

Ages: 10–12
Term: Autumn, spring
Length: 8 weeks

Overview

This thoughtfully designed course invites young artists to slow down, look closely, and truly learn how to draw what they see. Focusing on observational hand drawing, students will work with pencil, pen, ink, chalk and charcoal to build strong foundations and develop confident, expressive mark-making.

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

There’s no magic recipe for learning to draw – just practice, curiosity, and encouragement. In this relaxed yet structured course, students aged 10–12 will be fully supported as they surprise themselves with what they can achieve.

Working at a steady, manageable pace, each week introduces new techniques that are reinforced through engaging observational drawing projects, helping skills grow naturally and confidently over time to discover the delights of drawing.  Every week, students will be introduced to an artist who uses drawing as a key part of their creative practice.

The course begins with the essentials: mark-making, line weight, shading, contrast and tone. Students will explore how to create the illusion of 3D form, understand light and shadow, experiment with simple composition, depth, and basic perspective to bring their drawings to life.

As the course progresses, they'll be introduced to a wide range of drawing techniques, styles and media. Carefully designed projects will challenge and inspire, helping young artists build specialist skills, grow in confidence, and develop their own creative voice.

Above all, this is an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student is encouraged, respected, and guided every step of the way on their creative journey.

Introduction to traditional drawing .
Drawing unique items that will encourage curiosity and a diverse range of mark-making.
Guidance from an experienced practicing artist and tutor.
A calm, relaxed, supportive teaching environment where students will ‘learn by doing’.

At the end of the course your young artist will:

Students will have gained confidence in drawing and observational skills
Comprehension of the importance of preparation, utilising sketchbooks, and developing ideas
Understanding how to create 3D images
Enhanced fundamental art and design skills
A boost of confidence and creativity

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 10-12.

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 that 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

Pauline Stanley

Pauline is a practising fine artist specialising in drawing, printmaking and textiles, with a BA from Arts University Bournemouth and...

Course gallery

Dried green and brown plant specimen beside faint botanical sketch on white paper

Watercolour painting of angular mountain peaks in grey, blue and purple tones with white highlights, soft brushstrokes on cream paper

Black ink drawing of a raven on pale background with scattered ink splatters and loose, expressive line work throughout

Abstract illustration of white linear mountain peaks with flowing, curved lines on dark brown background. Dotted and organic patterns fill lower areas.

Pencil and pastel drawing of angular geometric shapes in green and grey tones on pale pink background with soft shading

Charcoal sketch on beige paper showing two standing figures drawn with loose, gestural black lines

Person in red jumper drawing floral design on white paper with black pen, art supplies and mobile phone on white table

Person in blue sleeves drawing botanical sketch of flowers in vase on spiral notebook with pen

Woman with brown hair wearing green striped top drawing pencil sketches of figures on white paper at wooden easel

Beyond the course

This could just be the start of your young artist's creative journey! After this course, your young artist could continue to harness their creativity and explore alternative Saturday Art School subjects for youngsters aged 10-12.