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Simply Drawing!

  • Ages: 11-14
  • Term: Autumn, summer
  • Length: 8 weeks

Overview

This new course has been specially designed to focus on observational hand drawing, slowing down the process of learning to draw what you see by simply using pencil, pen, and charcoal.   

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

What you need to know

When does it run?

Autumn term 2025

Saturday 27 September | Saturdays 4, 18–25 October | Saturdays 1, 15–29 November 2025

Please note, there are no sessions on 11 October and 8 November due to AUB Open Days.

Summer term 2026

Saturdays 18–25 April | Saturdays 2–30 May | Saturday 6 June 2026

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 aspiring artists aged 10-12.

Please note, we can't accept young artists below 10 years old on this course.

We also offer this course tailored for 7-9 year-olds.

Does my young artist need any qualifications or experience?

No, 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?

£259

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 wear clothes that you don't mind your young artists 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.

About this course

In a relaxed but structured course students aged 11-14 years will take a steady pace to learn basic techniques, and each week young artists will practice and build upon essential techniques through a variety of observational drawing projects.   

There isn’t a magic recipe to learning to draw but anyone can do it, so why not surprise yourself, as this course will fully support you on your drawing journey. In a relaxed but structured course students aged 11-14 years will take a steady pace to learn basic techniques, and each week young artists will practice and build upon essential techniques through a variety of observational drawing projects.      

We'll start with mark making and learn about the weight of the line, shading, contrast, and tone, how to make something appear 3D, and explore light sources, how to consider simple composition, depth of field, and basic perspectives.    

As the course progresses, you'll be introduced a myriad of drawing techniques, styles, different mediums, and inspiring projects that'll accelerate learning, specialist skills and techniques to foster confidence and individual creativity.    

It goes without saying, we ensure all our young learners are included, respected, and supported every step of the way on their creative journey with us. 

  • Introduction to traditional drawing .
  • Drawing unique selected items from the university Museum of Design in Plastics (MoDiP).
  • 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:

  • Gain confidence in your drawing and observational skills.
  • Gain the ability to approach still life subject matter.
  • Develop understanding of how to create 3D images.
  • Use drawing as a means of relaxation and taking personal time out.
  • Gain the foundations to continue creating beyond this course.
  • Experience the use of creative flair, experiment with new techniques and then refine them under the guidance of the tutor, setting them up well for endless possibilities of future projects.
  • Possess improved artistic skills.
  • Have an appreciation and understanding of creative processes, including seeing an idea through from start to finish, sharing, and reflecting.
  • Understand the importance of preparation, utilising sketchbooks, and developing ideas.
  • Understand the key benefits of a creative community of their peers.
  • Have increased confidence in their own skills.
  • Have boosted creativity and imagination.
  • Appreciate teamwork and team building ethics.
  • Feel inspired by the new skills they've learnt and from sharing ideas with new friends.
  • Have the foundations to continue creating beyond this course.
  • You can request a certificate to confirm your young artist's achievements, providing they have 100% attendance record. To request a certificate please get in touch with us at academy@aub.ac.uk and confirm name of your young artist and the title of course they've completed.
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Book your young artist's place today

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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.

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Our Saturday Art School courses are designed to inspire and enable the creators of tomorrow – take a look at our full list of courses here.

Important information about Saturday Art School courses

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Why choose Saturday Art School for your young artist?

At Saturday Art School we encourage your young artists to be themselves; there's no right or wrong way to be creative.

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Short Courses FAQs – Evening and Weekend and Saturday Art School

If you have any questions about our Evening and Saturday Short Courses, you may find the answers in here.

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Saturday Art School booking T&Cs

Please read our terms and conditions carefully before booking your young artist onto our Saturday Art School courses.

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How to book

Looking to book onto one of our Evening and Saturday courses? You’ll find everything you need to book your place here.

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