AUB Academy has successfully delivered its third bespoke creative course in partnership with AGE, welcoming international students to campus for an immersive exploration of British art, design, and culture.
The intensive four-week programme offered students a unique blend of practical, hands-on studio work, dedicated English language learning, and cultural excursions, designed to build their skills and inspire their future creative journeys.
Divided into specialist pathways, the students experienced Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)’s state-of-the-art facilities firsthand. Those on the print and paint pathway spent the first two weeks taking part in mono and relief screenprinting sessions in the print room with Donna Peters, alongside illustration, observational drawing, and life drawing sessions led by Sharon Beeden.
They also explored traditional fine art techniques with dedicated sessions in pastel and watercolour painting under the guidance of Alison Board.
During the final fortnight, the students specialised in fashion and accessory design, delving into British fashion and costume history. Led by Claire Flexen and Yunhee Choi, the group developed their skills in fashion design, illustration, jewellery design and the fundamentals of beading and embroidery.
To complement their studio practice, the students embarked on several cultural excursions across the UK, visiting the British Museum in London, Christ Church College and Bicester Village in Oxford, and King’s College, Cambridge.
Alongside their daily creative practices and photography sessions, the students dedicated their afternoons to intensive English language learning.
Speaking at the course's closing ceremony, one of the student representatives praised the structured nature of the course and the dedication of the tutors:
“I have never explored these areas of art before, let alone taken part in hands-on practice. These courses have challenged me mentally and physically and greatly improved my practical skills.
“The art tutors are highly experienced, kind and friendly. While providing professional guidance, they also constantly encourage us to think creatively, helping us discover our hidden creative potential and build our self-confidence.”
The student also expressed deep gratitude to the language tutors, Ms. Christine and Emma, as well as their course interpreter, Rachel, who supported the group by translating between English and Chinese daily.
“After getting to know our situation, Ms. Christine made every effort to adapt her teaching content, trying to meet the needs of students at different levels. Emma’s classes were lively, engaging, highly targeted, and practical.
“Without the tutors, Rachel, and the AUB Academy team, we would not have achieved what we have learned or enjoyed such a wonderful time.”
For other members of the cohort, the opportunity to study at AUB represented the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition. One of the mature students on the course shared how growing up, she had always dreamed of being an artist but was steered towards mainstream science and maths subjects. Coming to AUB in her retirement has allowed her to finally bring that dream to life:
“Coming to Bournemouth is like a full circle moment. Every day I have been really grateful to learn and to experience different classes like jewellery making, drawing, and fashion making.
“AUB really gave me the opportunity and the environment to inspire my creative journey from now on, so that I can keep going.”
The success of the programme highlights AUB Academy's ongoing commitment to fostering international creative partnerships and welcoming diverse global perspectives to the campus.
Hannah Barnett-Dolling, Senior Business Development Officer at AUB Academy, says, “This was the third course we have proudly delivered for AGE. It’s always a pleasure to see how quickly the students connect with our creative community and make the most of our specialist studios.
“We’re already preparing to welcome our next cohorts throughout July and August and looking forward to developing our course offerings even further for the 2026/27 academic year.”
