Our FD has two stages and runs for two years (full-time) or four years (part-time). You’ll need to successfully complete each stage in order to progress to the next, including meeting attendance requirements (as detailed in our Attendance Policy).

You will mainly be based at Mermaid Court (London Bridge) with some time in Stage 2 spent at our Newington site (Elephant and Castle).

There are four main components to the FD, detailed below.

Studio Practice modules: these are where you develop personal projects in response to a series of briefs. These modules are taught through one-to-one tutorials, group critiques, workshops, lectures and practical work in a studio. As part of Studio Practice, you’ll also undertake contextual research to support each of your personal projects, which includes preparatory work, research, and pieces of reflective and discursive writing.

Contextual Studies module: you’ll attend a series lectures exploring historic and contemporary approaches to sculpture, and research an area of sculpture relevant to your practice in Stage 2.

Elective Skills Workshop courses: these courses provide you with intensive training in the technical skills you’ll need to develop your creative vision and directly support your Studio Practice modules. Each course runs for one full day per week per term.

Professional Development modules: these focus specifically on the skills and knowledge needed for future employment in the arts and creative industries.

You can find detailed information in the ‘Programme yearly structure’ section below.

Term Dates 2019/20

Autumn term: Monday 9th September – Friday 29th November (reading week 21st October – 26th October)

Spring term: Monday 13th January – Friday 27th March (reading week 17th February – 22nd February)

Summer term: Tuesday 14th April – Monday 22nd June (no reading week)

Stage 1 (Level 4)

One year full time, two years part time

Studio Practice modules

Experiment with figurative and abstract techniques as you explore who you are as a sculptor. You’ll undertake three studio practice modules (both through taught sessions and independent study), where you’ll identify areas of interest, take risks and experiment.

At the end of this stage, you’ll work with your peers, the Contemporary Portrait FD students and an external curator to create work for a public exhibition.

You’ll attend Studio Practice one day a week across all three terms (full time) or one day per week across three of the six terms available (part time). You’ll also work independently on your project for at least one day a week.

During Stage 1, these modules are taught in studios throughout our buildings. Stage 1 students aren’t given personal studio space.

Elective Skills Workshop courses

Through Elective Skills Workshops, you’ll explore a wide range of techniques, including armature-making, portrait sculpture, waste moulding, plaster and Jesmonite casting, colouring and patination, ceramics and mixed media. You’ll also be able to take additional classes in techniques such as stone carving and kiln formed glass in the evenings and at weekends.

You’ll attend two to three Elective Skills Workshop courses each term (or one to two for part time students), including a compulsory drawing elective in each term (or across three of the six terms available for part time). You’ll also have to complete the Digital Development course to prepare you for the Professional Development module in Stage 2.

You can choose a maximum of five other Elective Skills Workshop courses in any discipline to study across Stage 1.

Professional Development module

Throughout the year, you’ll complete a professional development module exploring the vocational opportunities available to you in creative industries. You’ll attend a series of workshops and lectures from relevant professionals and practising artists, and complete a report on an area of professional practice that is of interest to you. To complete this module you’ll also have to study independently.

Stage 2 (Level 5)

One year full time, two years part time

Studio Practice and Contextual Studies modules

In Stage 2, you’ll be given your own studio space to work on your Studio Practice modules independently outside of taught sessions.

Your fourth Studio Practice module is a live commission. Supported by your tutor and peers, you’ll learn to balance the client’s needs with your own creative process from conception to final piece.

Your final Studio Practice module runs over the last two terms of Stage 2, where you’ll create a major body of work for exhibition at the annual Graduate Show, supported by Elective Skills Workshop courses. You’ll work on your final project both in taught sessions and independently from your own personal studio space. This module is assessed at the Graduate show. You’ll also produce a supporting portfolio and take part in a viva voce with tutors and an external assessor..

Alongside your final Studio Practice module, you’ll complete a contextual studies module, exploring aspects of art history and theory relevant to your practice.

Professional Development module

To help prepare you for life as a practising artist, you’ll also complete a professional development module, which looks at everything from PR & branding, to completing residencies, and taxation for a self-employed artist.

You’ll create a portfolio of evidence for assessment, which includes creating a website, marketing plans and evidence of the use of marketing and business tools. You’ll also need to study independently in addition to your taught sessions.

Our Sculpture FD offers some of the highest contact hours of any higher education art course in the UK. As a full time student, you’ll receive three to four days per week of tutored time (two days a week part time) throughout the programme.

The lead tutors for the Sculpture FD are:

Julian Wild is our Sculpture Diploma Pathway Leader, Briony Marshall is our Professional Development Programme Leader and David Hodge is our Art History & Theory Programme Leader.

Our Studio Practice tutors include Julian Wild, Sarah Gillham and Lynne Abrahamson.

The tutors you are taught by within the Elective Skills Workshop courses will depend on the courses you choose. You can view all our tutors here.

We provide high levels of support and guidance for every step of your journey – from first enquiry to your graduation. We pride ourselves on our close community, where students feel safe and able to seek advice and guidance from our staff. For more information detailing the main areas of support, please see our Student Support page.

“The whole experience feels very special. The Academy is to me a priceless rare gem of an art school.”

For several years I searched and struggled to find a sculpture course that taught both traditional skills and contemporary practice. I couldn’t quite believe it when I found the Art Academy  Sculpture Diploma online. I was incredibly excited and relieved. I read through the entire course and academy documentation in one sitting, barely taking a breath of air, overwhelmed with emotion. I signed up to go to the open day straight away and never looked back.

The Art Academy is a unique environment. There is a vast amount of support and constructive criticism all around every day……READ MORE

Jo Holt, Sculpture student

By the time you graduate, you’ll have exhibited work, built a website and social media profiles, completed a commission, created an online and offline portfolio and developed a network of contacts.

We often offer exhibiting opportunities to our students and alumni. Academy students have gone on to win large commissions and undertake residency opportunities, including:

• Exhibiting in KPMG’s headquarters in Canary Wharf
• Creating installations in the Walkie-Talkie building
• A £15,000 sculpture commission for the Royal Artillery Company
• Designing a public sculpture in Beckenham Place Park
• Creating public art for a regeneration project in Romford
• Working with the Old Vic Theatre to create an advertising campaign for King Lear.

Every year, we hold a series of prizes including The Kennerley Prize for Academic Excellence, the Art Academy Drawing Prize, the Art Academy Portrait Prize, The Surrey Sculpture Society Prize, The Peer Prize, the Pure Arts Prize and the Liberty Arts Prize.

Fees 2019/2020

Every first-year student joining the Foundation Degree in September 2019 will have access to the AAL Academic Bursary for the duration of the programme; this will reduce our fees to significantly below national levels for degree courses. Our 2019/20 fees (inclusive of the bursary) are set out below:

We review our fees annually; they are likely to increase due to inflation in the following academic years (this is capped at 5% p.a.).

Fees must be paid in advance, and you can pay them yearly or by term (incurring a 5% surcharge). We will consider payment options to help you split the cost, so please get in touch to discuss this with us.

Bursaries

You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for additional bursaries, which are assessed on an individual basis and based on need as well as merit. Once you have been offered a place, you can submit a bursary application form to admissions@artacademy.org.uk. We’ll inform you of our decision once the application process is complete.

Bursaries

You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for additional bursaries, which are assessed on an individual basis and based on need as well as merit. Once you have been offered a place, you can submit a bursary application form to admissions@artacademy.org.uk. We’ll inform you of our decision once the application process is complete.

Materials

While some basic materials are provided for certain Elective Skills Workshop courses, you’ll need to provide most of the materials required to complete the course successfully and cover other costs such as those associated with the final year Graduate Show.

Based on a survey from our previous students, we estimate that these costs will be between £500 and £1,500 per year, although this will vary depending on the materials, chosen disciplines and stage of the programme.

We have a small shop onsite, where you can purchase some materials at a heavily discounted price. You can find some guidance on where to buy other specialist materials in the Student Handbook and from your tutors.

Trips and visits 

You’ll be expected to visit galleries and exhibitions independently, to help develop your contextual knowledge and practice. Some parts of the programme will also suggest you visit specific exhibitions: many of these are free.

We understand that where there is an entry fee, you may not always be able to attend; while we encourage you to take these trips, they’re not compulsory or essential, and your tutor will prepare an alternative itinerary of free museum and gallery visits that you can follow.

Deposit

As a small independent art school we are unable to hold places offered indefinitely. If your application is successful you’ll need to pay a deposit of £500 (which is in addition to the course fees) and return your signed contract to secure your place. Your deposit is returned after successful completion of the programme and removal of your Graduate Show installation. If you withdraw from the programme without successfully completing it, or fail to satisfactorily remove your Graduate Show installation (and we incur costs to do so), we will keep your deposit.

Funding 

We’re an independent institution, so our courses are not subject to public funding. There is therefore no exemption from fees for under 19 year olds or access to student loans.

Refunds 

Once you’ve returned the signed contract and paid your deposit, you have a 14-day cooling off period to change your mind. If you choose to cancel during this time, we’ll refund your full deposit.

You’ll need to pay your tuition fees before the start of the programme. If you decide to cancel after the 14-day period and before the fees are due, your deposit will not be refunded. If you decide to withdraw once you’ve started the programme, you will be liable for the first term’s tuition fees and will not be refunded your deposit. If you decide to cancel your contract or withdraw at any point, you should do so in writing using the form provided.

You will need to give a full term’s notice of withdrawal, informing us by the last teaching day of the previous term: your notice period cannot start part way through a term. If it does, you will be liable to pay full fees for the term’s notice period. Should you need to, you can suspend study for up to 12 months. Please see our withdrawal and interruption of study policy for more information.

Please see our Terms and Conditions for more information on Fees.

We consider each application on an individual basis and welcome candidates from a variety of backgrounds.

You’ll attend a 30-45 minute interview with one or two tutors to discuss your application and review your portfolio. This can be done via Skype if needed – please get in touch to find out more. Remember, this discussion is also an opportunity for you to ask us questions!

As part of this, we’ll assess your key artistic skills, level of ability, and enthusiasm to explore new ways of working and develop your ideas. We’ll also evaluate your awareness of artistic concepts, and the cultural, historical and professional contexts of fine art. We’ll review your personal statement and any academic references provided (if applicable).

Although no formal qualifications are required, you’ll need to demonstrate work at least of Level 3 (A-Level) equivalent. In some cases, we may ask to see additional supplementary work.

Intake is only in term one (September). Entry is typically at Stage 1, but we may allow direct entry to Stage 2 if we think you have appropriate prior qualifications and experience – please get in touch to find out more.

Portfolio

You’ll need to bring along a portfolio to your interview, containing:

• 10 to 15 pieces of original finished work, which show your technical ability in a range of media. Please bring photographs of 3D installation work. If some of your work is digital, please bring this on a device to show it.
• One or two sketchbooks showing your own areas of interest, individual thought process or development process of finished work.
• One example of writing, critical study work or exploration of other artists.

If you don’t have all of the above, get in touch to talk to us about alternatives.

English language requirements

All applicants are required to demonstrate an appropriate level of English language competence to study with us. This can be through previous study in English (evidencing an approved English language qualification at Level 2, GCSE or equivalent). If you are unable to provide evidence of a relevant, formal English qualification, we will require specific performance in written English tests at interview. Appropriate level of spoken English is assessed at interview.

Admission policy 

We do not sponsor international students through the Tier 4 visa system and therefore cannot accept international students unless they are able to prove right of residency in the UK.

We operate a fair and transparent admissions process to ensure that the widest range of people can benefit from the fine art education we provide; find out more in our Admissions policy and Criminal Convictions Policy and Procedure.

Academic regulations and policies

When studying with us, it’s important that you are aware of our Academic Regulations and Policies. These outline the agreed procedures and protocols to ensure you understand both the expectations and support available to you. To find out more information please see our Academic Regulations and Policies page.

Our open days offer an invaluable opportunity to find out more about our facilities, courses and tutors, and to meet members of our vibrant and welcoming community. If you’d like to attend an open day, please complete the booking form here.

We welcome all enthusiastic candidates to apply. If you are interested in studying with us, please register to attend an open day or email academiccourses@artacademy.org.uk or call +44 (0) 20 7407 6969 to discuss our courses further or arrange a visit.

Application deadline

We accept applications on a rolling basis. You should note that applications are subject to availability and will not be accepted if the programme has reached capacity.

More information can be found in the Admissions Policy.

How to apply

To apply, download the application form here. You’ll need to make sure you are using the latest version of Adobe Reader.

You can then send us your completed form via email to admissions@artacademy.org.uk., or by post (along with at least five images of your work) to:

Admissions Team, Art Academy London, Mermaid Court, 165A Borough High Street, London SE1 1HR

Remember, the application form is your first opportunity to tell us about yourself, as well as being a vital source of the information we need to make a decision. Please take your time to complete the form accurately and remember to check you have provided all the information required, including the link to your digital portfolio. We only accept applications on the form provided and reserve the right to reject incomplete or alternative applications.

Should you have any questions about the application process or completing the form, please speak to a member of the Admissions team.

The result

We’ll normally tell you our decision within three weeks. There are three possible outcomes, detailed below.

Conditional offer: this means we will offer you a place providing certain conditions are met before registration on the programme e.g. the completion of outstanding qualifications. Each offer is specific to individual circumstances.

Unconditional offer: this means you’ve met the academic and non-academic entry requirements and have been accepted onto your chosen programme.

Unsuccessful application: this means we have decided not to offer you a place on the programme. Applicants can be unsuccessful for many reasons and should be aware that many of the programmes at the Academy receive far more applications than number of places available.

Feedback on the decision will be given to any applicant who requests it. We will always ensure that the interviews and portfolio reviews are carried out fairly and equally. All those conducting interviews are trained to do so and fully conversant in our Admissions Policy. Although decisions to admit or reject applicants are academic judgments and therefore cannot be appealed, if an applicant feels that the interview and selection process was not conducted fairly and equitably or as described in our Admissions Policy, the process for making a complaint in this regard can be found within the policy document.

Next steps

You will be notified of the outcome by email. If successful, you’ll also receive: an offer letter, the Terms and Conditions (contract) which you will need to sign and return along with your deposit, and copies of the Student Handbook, Programme Handbook and Academic Regulations. By accepting an offer you agree to abide by the Academy’s Regulations.

You’ll also be invited to our Graduate shows, to get a sense of the community and see what you can achieve by studying with us.

Prior to starting you will be sent the course documents for the Elective Skills Workshop courses and have a meeting or phone conversation with a member of the Academic Team to discuss and agree your choices for the first term. Part-time students will also need to decide on individual routes through the first stage of the programme.

Application process

We are committed to supporting accessible learning and welcome students with disabilities and special educational needs.

Disclosure

We encourage you to disclose any disabilities or special needs when you apply, so we can plan any support that we may need to provide at the earliest opportunity, including during the admissions process. Admissions decisions are always made on the basis of a candidate’s ability and/or potential to complete the programme.

Accessibility and reasonable adjustments 

Provided that a candidate is suitable for the programme applied for, we will make reasonable adjustments for applicants with a physical or mobility impairment in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Our premises are old buildings, which means that access to some areas can be problematic for people with a physical disability. This will continue to be an issue for the immediate future and all our premises are currently inaccessible to wheelchair users.

Therefore, where possible, we make appropriate arrangements to hold interviews, classes, workshops, tutorials, exhibitions and other events in accessible spaces in our Mermaid Court and Newington buildings, and can provide alternative storage spaces where these may normally be in inaccessible areas. We are also currently completing a number of works to our main building in Mermaid Court, London Bridge, to improve access and facilities for wheelchair users, including a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

This means that from September 2019 we will be able to accommodate most students with physical disabilities on our academic programmes.

Some of our buildings will remain inaccessible for the foreseeable future (our second building at Mermaid Court and the second floor of our Newington building). We are committed to improving access to all our buildings and are working towards making all areas of our campus fully accessible to all.

Hearing technology for hard of hearing/deaf applicants 

Portable induction loops can be provided during open days, interview and in teaching spaces if required.

Other disabilities and conditions

If you have any other disability, specific learning difficulty, health, or mental health difficulty, please contact us to talk about options for support.

Student support

SEN students

We welcome students with Special Educational Needs. A bespoke programme of Elective Skills Workshop courses will be mapped if necessary, and alternative assessment models employed where appropriate to provide a parity of opportunity with non-SEN students. Our Head of SEN will act as a personal tutor and first point of contact for all SEN students, and will also ensure that all other tutors working with SEN students understand that student’s needs and how to support them. In the final year of study, SEN students may be given additional support as necessary as they work towards their Graduate Show.

The Head of SEN, and other staff members as relevant, will keep in regular contact with the parents of SEN students if appropriate, including meeting with them to discuss the progress of the student and any issues arising in their course of study.

Disabled students

Students or applicants who declare a disability, specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia), long term health condition or mental health disability are asked to complete a ‘Student Declaration and Identification of Support Needs’ form. This is in addition to the declaration requested at application and is intended to ensure we capture the information we need to ensure a safe and successful educational career at the Academy. A member of the Academic team will then contact the student to discuss their individual support requirements and agree actions, which are made available to relevant tutors and support staff, informing them of any services and adjustments required.

If you don’t find the answer to your question here please contact the Academic team on +44 (0) 20 7407 6969 or email academiccourses@artacademy.org.uk.

Can I study the Sculpture FD part-time?

Yes, part-time students attend two days a week over four years.

Are bursaries or student loans available for the Sculpture FD?

The  Sculpture FD is superseding our successful Sculpture Diploma, but because it’s a new course those studying on it are not currently eligible for student loans. We can offer advice on possible sources of funding for students. See the ‘Fees and Funding’ section above for more details or contact us to discuss your options.

Do you take mature students for the Sculpture FD?

Yes, applications from mature students are welcomed. Mature students make up a large part of our community.

Do I need to have done any formal training before applying for the Sculpture FD?

No, but the Sculpture FD is for those intending to make art their full-time occupation. During interview, we will consider your level of ability and commitment through discussion and portfolio review.

Is the Sculpture FD recognised or accredited?

We are currently working with a validating partner to ensure our Sculpture FD is accredited.

Do I need to supply my own materials?

Yes, materials are not included in your tuition fee costs. For more information on material costs see the ‘Fees & Funding’ section above.

Our FD has two stages and runs for two years (full-time) or four years (part-time). You’ll need to successfully complete each stage in order to progress to the next, including meeting attendance requirements (as detailed in our Attendance Policy).

You will mainly be based at Mermaid Court (London Bridge) with some time in Stage 2 spent at our Newington site (Elephant and Castle).

There are four main components to the FD, detailed below.

Studio Practice modules: these are where you develop personal projects in response to a series of briefs. These modules are taught through one-to-one tutorials, group critiques, workshops, lectures and practical work in a studio. As part of Studio Practice, you’ll also undertake contextual research to support each of your personal projects, which includes preparatory work, research, and pieces of reflective and discursive writing.

Contextual Studies module: you’ll attend a series lectures exploring historic and contemporary approaches to portraiture, and research an area of portrait painting relevant to your practice in Stage 2.

Elective Skills Workshop courses: these courses provide you with intensive training in the technical skills you’ll need to develop your creative vision and directly support your Studio Practice modules. Each course runs for one full day per week per term.

Professional Development modules: these focus specifically on the skills and knowledge needed for future employment in the arts and creative industries.

You can find detailed information in the ‘Programme yearly structure’ section below.

Term Dates 2019/20

Autumn term: Monday 9th September – Friday 29th November (reading week 21st October – 26th October)

Spring term: Monday 13th January – Friday 27th March (reading week 17th February – 22nd February)

Summer term: Tuesday 14th April – Monday 22nd June (no reading week)

Stage 1 (Level 4)

One year full time, two years part time

Studio Practice modules

Experiment with processes, materials and techniques as you build the foundation for your developing portraiture practice. You’ll undertake three studio practice modules (both through taught sessions and independent study), where you’ll identify areas of interest, take risks and experiment. At the end of this stage, you’ll work with your peers, the Sculpture FD students and an external curator to create work for a public exhibition.

You’ll attend Studio Practice one day a week across all three terms (full time) or one day per week across three of the six terms available (part time). You’ll also work independently on your project for at least one day a week.

During Stage 1, these modules are taught in studios throughout our buildings. Stage 1 students aren’t given personal studio space.

Elective Skills Workshop courses

You’ll also complete Elective Skills Workshops to build essential portrait and figure-painting skills, as well as a portrait sculpture session to develop your understanding of the portrait head in 3D and lectures looking at historic and contemporary portraiture.

You’ll attend two to three Elective Skills Workshop courses each term (or one to two for part time students), including a compulsory drawing elective in each term (or across three of the six terms available for part time). You’ll also have to complete the Digital Development course to prepare you for the Professional Development module in Stage 2.

You can choose a maximum of five other Elective Skills Workshop courses in any discipline to study across Stage 1.

Professional Development module

Throughout the year, you’ll complete a professional development module exploring the vocational opportunities available to you in creative industries. You’ll attend a series of workshops and lectures from relevant professionals and practising artists, and complete a report on an area of professional practice that is of interest to you. To complete this module you’ll also have to study independently.

Stage 2 (Level 5)

One year full time, two years part time

Studio Practice and Contextual Studies modules

In Stage 2, you’ll be given your own studio space to work on your Studio Practice modules independently outside of taught sessions.

Your fourth Studio Practice module is a live commission. Supported by your tutor and peers, you’ll learn to balance the client’s needs with your own creative process from conception to final piece.

The final Studio Practice module runs over the last two terms of the stage, where you’ll create a major body of work for exhibition at the annual Graduate Show, supported by Elective Skills Workshop courses. You’ll work on your final project both in taught sessions and independently from your own personal studio space. This module is assessed at the Graduate show. You’ll also produce a supporting portfolio and take part in a viva voce with tutors and an external assessor.

Alongside your final Studio Practice module, you’ll complete a contextual studies module, exploring aspects of art history and theory relevant to your practice.

Professional Development module

To help prepare you for life as a practising artist, you’ll also complete a professional development module, which looks at everything from PR & branding, to completing residencies, and taxation for a self employed artist.

You’ll create a portfolio of evidence for assessment, which includes creating a website, marketing plans and evidence of the use of marketing and business tools. You’ll also need to study independently in addition to your taught sessions.

Our Contemporary Portraiture FD offers some of the highest contact hours of any higher education art course in the UK. As a full time student, you’ll receive three to four days per week of tutored time (two days a week part time) throughout the programme.

The lead tutors for the Contemporary Portraiture FD are:

Roxana Halls is our Contemporary Portraiture Pathway Leader, Briony Marshall is our Professional Development Programme Leader and David Hodge is our Art History & Theory Programme Leader.

Our Studio Practice tutors include Roxana Halls, Sadie Lee, Robin-Lee Hall and Sue Spaull.

The tutors you are taught by within the Elective Skills Workshop courses will depend on the courses you choose. You can view all our tutors here.

We provide high levels of support and guidance for every step of your journey – from first enquiry to your graduation. We pride ourselves on our close community, where students feel safe and able to seek advice and guidance from our staff. For more information detailing the main areas of support, please see our Student Support page.

“I was delighted to have my work accepted for the Royal Society of Portrait Painters annual exhibition and felt honoured to be exhibiting alongside no less than seven of my Art Academy tutors.”

“In his book “ Outliers”, Malcolm Gladwell  wrote that “Ten thousand hours is the magic number of greatness”.  If this is the case, then my time at the Art Academy studying for the Contemporary Portrait Diploma should have gone some way towards totting up those hours. I embarked on this journey two years ago and in that time the Art Academy has become my second home, spending four days a week dashing along the back roads from London Bridge station, carrying canvasses and my ubiquitous painting trolley up several flights of stairs daily, with the camaraderie of painting friends, tutors, models and the office staff becoming a huge part of my daily life.

I came to the Art Academy because of the calibre of its tutors….READ MORE

Jane Masojada, Contemporary Portrait Diploma Student

Fees 2019/2020

Every first-year student joining the Foundation Degree in September 2019 will have access to the AAL Academic Bursary for the duration of the programme; this will reduce our fees to significantly below national levels for degree courses. Our 2019/20 fees (inclusive of the bursary) are set out below:

We review our fees annually; they are likely to increase due to inflation in the following academic years (this is capped at 5% p.a.).

Fees must be paid in advance, and you can pay them yearly or by term (incurring a 5% surcharge). We will consider payment options to help you split the cost, so please get in touch to discuss this with us.

Bursaries

You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for additional bursaries, which are assessed on an individual basis and based on need as well as merit. Once you have been offered a place, you can submit a bursary application form to admissions@artacademy.org.uk. We’ll inform you of our decision once the application process is complete.

Materials

While some basic materials are provided for certain Elective Skills Workshop courses, you’ll need to provide most of the materials required to complete the course successfully and cover other costs such as those associated with the final year Graduate Show.

Based on a survey from our previous students, we estimate that these costs will be between £500 and £1,500 per year, although this will vary depending on the materials, chosen disciplines and stage of the programme.

We have a small shop onsite, where you can purchase some materials at a heavily discounted price. You can find some guidance on where to buy other specialist materials in the Student Handbook and from your tutors.

Trips and visits 

You’ll be expected to visit galleries and exhibitions independently, to help develop your contextual knowledge and practice. Some parts of the programme will also suggest you visit specific exhibitions: many of these are free.

We understand that where there is an entry fee, you may not always be able to attend; while we encourage you to take these trips, they’re not compulsory or essential, and your tutor will prepare an alternative itinerary of free museum and gallery visits that you can follow.

Deposit

As a small independent art school we are unable to hold places offered indefinitely. If your application is successful you’ll need to pay a deposit of £500 (which is in addition to the course fees) and return your signed contract to secure your place. Your deposit is returned after successful completion of the programme and removal of your Graduate Show installation. If you withdraw from the programme without successfully completing it, or fail to satisfactorily remove your Graduate Show installation (and we incur costs to do so), we will keep your deposit.

Funding 

We’re an independent institution, so our courses are not subject to public funding. There is therefore no exemption from fees for under 19 year olds or access to student loans.

Refunds 

Once you’ve returned the signed contract and paid your deposit, you have a 14-day cooling off period to change your mind. If you choose to cancel during this time, we’ll refund your full deposit.

You’ll need to pay your tuition fees before the start of the programme. If you decide to cancel after the 14-day period and before the fees are due, your deposit will not be refunded. If you decide to withdraw once you’ve started the programme, you will be liable for the first term’s tuition fees and will not be refunded your deposit. If you decide to cancel your contract or withdraw at any point, you should do so in writing using the form provided.

You will need to give a full term’s notice of withdrawal, informing us by the last teaching day of the previous term: your notice period cannot start part way through a term. If it does, you will be liable to pay full fees for the term’s notice period. Should you need to, you can suspend study for up to 12 months. Please see our withdrawal and interruption of study policy for more information.

Please see our Terms and Conditions for more information on Fees.

We consider each application on an individual basis and welcome candidates from a variety of backgrounds.

You’ll attend a 30-45 minute interview with one or two tutors to discuss your application and review your portfolio. This can be done via Skype if needed – please get in touch to find out more. Remember, this discussion is also an opportunity for you to ask us questions!

As part of this, we’ll assess your key artistic skills, level of ability, and enthusiasm to explore new ways of working and develop your ideas. We’ll also evaluate your awareness of artistic concepts, and the cultural, historical and professional contexts of fine art. We’ll review your personal statement and any academic references provided (if applicable).

Although no formal qualifications are required, you’ll need to demonstrate work at least of Level 3 (A-Level) equivalent. In some cases, we may ask to see additional supplementary work.

Intake is only in term one (September). Entry is typically at Stage 1, but we may allow direct entry to Stage 2 if we think you have appropriate prior qualifications and experience – please get in touch to find out more.

Portfolio

You’ll need to bring along a portfolio to your interview, containing:

• 10 to 15 pieces of original finished work, which show your technical ability in a range of media. Please bring photographs of 3D installation work. If some of your work is digital, please bring this on a device to show it.
• One or two sketchbooks showing your own areas of interest, individual thought process or development process of finished work.
• One example of writing, critical study work or exploration of other artists.

If you don’t have all of the above, get in touch to talk to us about alternatives.

English language requirements

All applicants are required to demonstrate an appropriate level of English language competence to study with us. This can be through previous study in English (evidencing an approved English language qualification at Level 2, GCSE or equivalent). If you are unable to provide evidence of a relevant, formal English qualification, we will require specific performance in written English tests at interview. Appropriate level of spoken English is assessed at interview.

Admission policy 

We do not sponsor international students through the Tier 4 visa system and therefore cannot accept international students unless they are able to prove right of residency in the UK.

We operate a fair and transparent admissions process to ensure that the widest range of people can benefit from the fine art education we provide; find out more in our Admissions policy and Criminal Convictions Policy and Procedure.

Academic regulations and policies

When studying with us, it’s important that you are aware of our Academic Regulations and Policies. These outline the agreed procedures and protocols to ensure you understand both the expectations and support available to you. To find out more information please see our Academic Regulations and Policies page.

Our open days offer an invaluable opportunity to find out more about our facilities, courses and tutors, and to meet members of our vibrant and welcoming community. If you’d like to attend an open day, please complete the booking form here.

We welcome all enthusiastic candidates to apply. If you are interested in studying with us, please register to attend an open day or email academiccourses@artacademy.org.uk or call +44 (0) 20 7407 6969 to discuss our courses further or arrange a visit.

Application deadline

We will accept applications on a rolling basis. You should note that applications are subject to availability and will not be accepted if the programme has reached capacity.

More information can be found in the Admissions Policy.

How to apply

To apply, download the application form here. You’ll need to make sure you are using the latest version of Adobe Reader.

You can then send us your completed form via email to admissions@artacademy.org.uk., or by post (along with at least five images of your work) to:

Admissions Team, Art Academy London, Mermaid Court, 165A Borough High Street, London SE1 1HR

Remember, the application form is your first opportunity to tell us about yourself, as well as being a vital source of the information we need to make a decision. Please take your time to complete the form accurately and remember to check you have provided all the information required, including the link to your digital portfolio. We only accept applications on the form provided and reserve the right to reject incomplete or alternative applications.

Should you have any questions about the application process or completing the form, please speak to a member of the Admissions team.

The result

We’ll normally tell you our decision within three weeks. There are three possible outcomes, detailed below.

Conditional offer: this means we will offer you a place providing certain conditions are met before registration on the programme e.g. the completion of outstanding qualifications. Each offer is specific to individual circumstances.

Unconditional offer: this means you’ve met the academic and non-academic entry requirements and have been accepted onto your chosen programme.

Unsuccessful application: this means we have decided not to offer you a place on the programme. Applicants can be unsuccessful for many reasons and should be aware that many of the programmes at the Academy receive far more applications than number of places available.

Feedback on the decision will be given to any applicant who requests it. We will always ensure that the interviews and portfolio reviews are carried out fairly and equally. All those conducting interviews are trained to do so and fully conversant in our Admissions Policy. Although decisions to admit or reject applicants are academic judgments and therefore cannot be appealed, if an applicant feels that the interview and selection process was not conducted fairly and equitably or as described in our Admissions Policy, the process for making a complaint in this regard can be found within the policy document.

Next steps

You will be notified of the outcome by email. If successful, you’ll also receive: an offer letter, the Terms and Conditions (contract) which you will need to sign and return along with your deposit, and copies of the Student Handbook, Programme Handbook and Academic Regulations. By accepting an offer you agree to abide by the Academy’s Regulations.

You’ll also be invited to our Graduate shows, to get a sense of the community and see what you can achieve by studying with us.

Prior to starting you will be sent the course documents for the Elective Skills Workshop courses and have a meeting or phone conversation with a member of the Academic Team to discuss and agree your choices for the first term. Part-time students will also need to decide on individual routes through the first stage of the programme.

Application process

We are committed to supporting accessible learning and welcome students with disabilities and special educational needs.

Disclosure

We encourage you to disclose any disabilities or special needs when you apply, so we can plan any support that we may need to provide at the earliest opportunity, including during the admissions process. Admissions decisions are always made on the basis of a candidate’s ability and/or potential to complete the programme.

Accessibility and reasonable adjustments 

Provided that a candidate is suitable for the programme applied for, we will make reasonable adjustments for applicants with a physical or mobility impairment in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Our premises are old buildings, which means that access to some areas can be problematic for people with a physical disability. This will continue to be an issue for the immediate future and all our premises are currently inaccessible to wheelchair users.

Therefore, where possible, we make appropriate arrangements to hold interviews, classes, workshops, tutorials, exhibitions and other events in accessible spaces in our Mermaid Court and Newington buildings, and can provide alternative storage spaces where these may normally be in inaccessible areas. We are also currently completing a number of works to our main building in Mermaid Court, London Bridge, to improve access and facilities for wheelchair users, including a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

This means that from September 2019 we will be able to accommodate most students with physical disabilities on our academic programmes.

Some of our buildings will remain inaccessible for the foreseeable future (our second building at Mermaid Court and the second floor of our Newington building). We are committed to improving access to all our buildings and are working towards making all areas of our campus fully accessible to all.

Hearing technology for hard of hearing/deaf applicants 

Portable induction loops can be provided during open days, interview and in teaching spaces if required.

Other disabilities and conditions

If you have any other disability, specific learning difficulty, health, or mental health difficulty, please contact us to talk about options for support.

Student support

SEN students

We welcome students with Special Educational Needs. A bespoke programme of Elective Skills Workshop courses will be mapped if necessary, and alternative assessment models employed where appropriate to provide a parity of opportunity with non-SEN students. Our Head of SEN will act as a personal tutor and first point of contact for all SEN students, and will also ensure that all other tutors working with SEN students understand that student’s needs and how to support them. In the final year of study, SEN students may be given additional support as necessary as they work towards their Graduate Show.

The Head of SEN, and other staff members as relevant, will keep in regular contact with the parents of SEN students if appropriate, including meeting with them to discuss the progress of the student and any issues arising in their course of study.

Disabled students

Students or applicants who declare a disability, specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia), long term health condition or mental health disability are asked to complete a ‘Student Declaration and Identification of Support Needs’ form. This is in addition to the declaration requested at application and is intended to ensure we capture the information we need to ensure a safe and successful educational career at the Academy. A member of the Academic team will then contact the student to discuss their individual support requirements and agree actions, which are made available to relevant tutors and support staff, informing them of any services and adjustments required.

If you don’t find the answer to your question here please contact the Academic team on +44 (0) 20 7407 6969 or email academiccourses@artacademy.org.uk.

Can I study the Contemporary Portraiture FD part-time?

Yes, part-time students attend two days a week over four years.

Are bursaries or student loans available for the Contemporary Portraiture FD?

The Contemporary Portraiture FD is superseding our successful Contemporary Portraiture Diploma, but because it’s a new course those studying on it are not currently eligible for student loans. We can offer advice on possible sources of funding for students. See the ‘Fees and Funding’ section above for more details or contact us to discuss your options.

Do you take mature students for the Contemporary Portraiture FD?

Yes, applications from mature students are welcomed. Mature students make up a large part of our community.

Do I need to have done any formal training before applying for the Contemporary Portraiture FD?

No, but the Contemporary Portraiture FD is for those intending to make art their full-time occupation. During interview, we will consider your level of ability and commitment through discussion and portfolio review.

Is the Contemporary Portraiture FD recognised or accredited?

We are currently working with a validating partner to ensure our Contemporary Portraiture FD is accredited.

Do I need to supply my own materials?

Yes, materials are not included in your tuition fee costs. For more information on material costs see the ‘Fees & Funding’ section above.

There are three stages to our BA, which you can complete in three years (full time) or six years (part time). You’ll need to successfully complete each stage in order to progress to the next, including meeting attendance requirements (as detailed in our Attendance Policy).

You will mainly be based at Mermaid Court (London Bridge) with some time in Stages 2 and 3 spent at our Newington site (Elephant and Castle).

There are four main components to the BA, detailed below.

Studio Practice modules: these are where you develop personal projects in response to a series of briefs. These modules are taught through one-to-one tutorials, group critiques, workshops, lectures and practical work in a studio. As part of Studio Practice, you’ll also undertake contextual research to support each of your personal projects, which includes preparatory work, research, and pieces of reflective and discursive writing.

Elective Skills Workshop courses: these courses provide you with intensive training in the technical skills you’ll need to develop your creative vision and directly support your Studio Practice modules. Each course runs for one full day per week per term.

Art Theory, History and Contextual Studies modules: here you will build your contextual knowledge by studying and analysing artistic discourses and theories, and modern and contemporary practice. You’ll do this through lectures, seminars, group activities and gallery visits. These modules are typically assessed through written work.

Professional Development modules: these focus specifically on the skills and knowledge needed for future employment in the arts and creative industries.

You can find detailed information in the ‘Programme yearly structure’ section below.

Term Dates 2019/20

Autumn term: Monday 9th September – Friday 29th November (reading week 21st October – 26th October)

Spring term: Monday 13th January – Friday 27th March (reading week 17th February – 22nd February)

Summer term: Tuesday 14th April – Monday 22nd June (no reading week)

Stage 1 (Level 4)

One year full time, two years part time

In Stage 1 you’ll focus on exploring and investigating. Stage 1 doesn’t contribute to your final BA grade and classification, but you will need to complete and pass all the modules to progress to Stage 2.

Studio Practice modules

Responding to a practical brief, you’ll experiment with processes, materials and techniques as you build the foundation for your developing art practice. You’ll start to identify areas of interest and to analyse your choices of materials and techniques through the expression of your ideas.

You’ll attend Studio Practice one day a week across all three terms (full time) or one day per week across three of the six terms available (part time). You’ll also work independently on your project for at least one day a week.

During Stage 1, these modules are taught in studios throughout our buildings. Stage 1 students aren’t given personal studio space.

Elective Skills Workshop courses

You’ll attend two to three Elective Skills Workshop courses each term (or one to two for part time students), including a compulsory drawing elective in each term (or across three of the six terms available for part time). You’ll also have to complete the Digital Development course to prepare you for the Professional Development module in Stage 2.

You can then choose a maximum of four other Elective Skills Workshop courses in any discipline to study across Stage 1.

Art Theory module: ‘Theories of Spectatorship’

This will introduce you to the critical evaluation of art and builds your academic research and writing skills. You’ll attend taught sessions one day a week, across one term in Stage 1, and complete independent study. The module is typically assessed through an essay.

Stage 2 (Level 5)

One year full time, two years part time

Stage 2 counts for 33% of your final BA grade and classification. You’ll now start to focus on self-reflection and analysis.

Studio Practice modules

These modules run for two full days each week across all three terms (full time) or one day per week across three of the six terms available (part time).

Your third Studio Practice project is an exciting live commission, where you’ll source a client, negotiate a brief and complete an artwork. The other two Studio Practice modules focus on further developing your own art practice, preparing you for Stage 3. In Stage 2, you’ll be given your own studio space to work on your Studio Practice modules independently, outside taught sessions.

There will be visits from guest lecturers and speakers, artist talks and workshops. You’ll also have access to lectures, seminars and workshops introducing you to a wide range of subjects – such as feminism, philosophy and science – which will feed into your art practice, providing inspiration for areas of investigation.

Elective Skills Workshop courses

Whether you’re studying full or part time, you’ll pick between two and five Elective Skills Workshop courses across Stage 2 to help refine your technique within your chosen discipline(s). Although drawing is no longer compulsory in Stage 2, you can choose drawing electives if they’re relevant to your practice and development.

Art History module: ‘Modern and Contemporary Art History’

Over one term, you’ll spend one day a week developing your understanding of key artists and thinkers from 1900 to the present day, and their influences on contemporary practice. You’ll also undertake independent study and typically have to complete an essay for assessment.

Professional Development module

To help prepare you for life as a practising artist, you’ll also complete a professional development module, which looks at everything from PR & branding, to completing residencies, to taxation for the self employed artist.

You’ll create a portfolio of evidence for assessment, which includes creating a website, marketing plans and evidence of the use of marketing and business tools. You’ll need to study independently in addition to your taught sessions to complete this module.

Stage 3 (Level 6)

One year full time, two years part time

The final stage of your BA is where you really come into your own as an artist. You’ll focus on creating one major body of work that is entirely self-initiated and self-directed in your own dedicated studio space. This stage counts for 67% of your final BA grade and classification.

Studio Practice module

At Stage 3, you’re expected to be increasingly independent in the studio, but you’ll still be supported through regular group critiques and one-to-one tutorials as you hone your own practice, research your artist’s statement and prepare to exhibit at the Graduate Show.

As a full-time student, you will typically spend two days a week per term working on your Studio Practice project, and undertake independent study on your self-initiated brief. If you choose to study part-time, you’ll typically spend one day a week per term on Studio Practice throughout the two years.

This module is assessed at the Graduate Show. You’ll also submit a supporting portfolio of developmental work and take part in a viva voce with a team of tutors and an external assessor, where you’ll answer questions about your project development, curatorial choices and contextual knowledge.

Elective Skills Workshop courses

You’ll choose a maximum of one Elective Skills Workshop course each term, to hone the skills needed for your final personal project (full time). Part time students will take a maximum of three electives spread throughout the two years of Stage 3.

Contextual Studies module

You’ll complete an extended research project – supported by your tutor in one-to-one sessions – focusing on an area of research that supports the development of your practical work.

Professional Development module

In this module, you’ll build on skills learnt in Stage 2, investigating an area of practice relevant to your own progression goals through an extended research project.

Our BA (Hons) Fine Art offers some of the highest contact hours of any higher education art course in the UK. As a full time student, you’ll receive three to four days per week of tutored time in Stages 1 and 2 (two days as a part time student). In Stage 3, the focus switches to Studio Practice project work and preparing for the Graduate Show, but you’ll still receive up to 14 hours contact time a week, plus one-to-one tutorials covering Professional Development and preparation for your extended contextual research project.

Our Studio Practice tutors include Julian Wild, Sarah Gillham, Alison Hand, Sue Spaull and Lynne Abrahamsson. Briony Marshall is our Professional Development Programme Leader and David Hodge is our Art History & Theory Programme Leader.

The tutors you are taught by within the Elective Skills Workshop courses will depend on the courses you choose. You can view all our tutors here.

We provide high levels of support and guidance for every step of your journey – from first enquiry to your graduation. We pride ourselves on our close community, where students feel safe and able to seek advice and guidance from our staff. For more information detailing the main areas of support, please see our Student Support page.

“There was so much art being made everywhere, but real, tangible living art and artists of all ages and disciplines”.

I have a distinct memory of the first time I walked into the Art Academy. I felt like a child who had just walked into Willy Wonker’s Chocolate Factory. It was a completely new world to me, but one I immediately wanted to be a part of. I saw fabulous, large sculptures being built from various models, life drawing, painting and much more. There was so much art being made everywhere, but real, tangible living art and artists of all ages and disciplines heavily involved in their work. I was enthralled straight away.

I had been to many art schools in London before but had never entered a space quite like this with such a practical, hands-on approach. I was mesmerised by the quality of the work and the intensity of its production. It was like a living dream to see huge sculptures and awe-inspiring paintings being created in such an immediate, physical way. Waiting to find out if… READ MORE

Rhiannon Rebecca Salisbury, Fine Art Diploma Student

By the time you graduate, you’ll have exhibited work, built a website and social media profiles, completed a commission, created an online and physical portfolio and developed a network of contacts.

We often offer exhibiting opportunities to our students and alumni. Academy students have gone on to win large commissions and undertake residency opportunities, including:

• Exhibiting in KPMG’s headquarters in Canary Wharf
• Creating installations in the Walkie-Talkie building
• A £15,000 sculpture commission for the Royal Artillery Company
• Designing a public sculpture in Beckenham Place Park
• Creating public art for a regeneration project in Romford
• Working with the Old Vic Theatre to create an advertising campaign for King Lear.

Every year, we hold a series of prizes including The Kennerley Prize for Academic Excellence, the Art Academy Drawing Prize, the Art Academy Portrait Prize, The Surrey Sculpture Society Prize, The Peer Prize, the Pure Arts Prize and the Liberty Arts Prize.

Fees 2019/20

Every first-year student joining the BA in September 2019 will have access to the AAL Academic Bursary for the duration of the programme; this will reduce our fees to significantly below national levels for degree courses. Our 2019/20 fees (inclusive of the bursary) are set out below:

We review our fees annually; they are likely to increase due to inflation in the following academic years (this is capped at 5% p.a.).

Fees must be paid in advance, and you can pay them yearly or by term (incurring a 5% surcharge). We will consider payment options to help you split the cost, so please get in touch to discuss this with us.

Bursaries

You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for additional bursaries, which are assessed on an individual basis and based on need as well as merit. Once you have been offered a place, you can submit a bursary application form to admissions@artacademy.org.uk. We’ll inform you of our decision once the application process is complete.

Materials

While some basic materials are provided for certain Elective Skills Workshop courses, you’ll need to provide most of the materials required to complete the course successfully and cover other costs such as those associated with the final year Graduate Show.

Based on a survey from our previous students, we estimate that these costs will be between £500 and £1,500 per year, although this will vary depending on the materials, chosen disciplines and stage of the programme.

We have a small shop onsite, where you can purchase some materials at a heavily discounted price. You can find guidance on where to buy other specialist materials in the Student Handbook and from your tutors.

Trips and visits 

You’ll be expected to visit galleries and exhibitions independently, to help develop your contextual knowledge and practice. Some parts of the programme will also suggest you visit specific exhibitions; many of these are free.

We understand that where there is an entry fee, you may not always be able to attend; while we encourage you to take these trips, they’re not compulsory or essential, and your tutor will prepare an alternative itinerary of free museum and gallery visits that you can follow.

Deposit

As a small independent art school we are unable to hold places offered indefinitely. If your application is successful you’ll need to pay a deposit of £500 (which is in addition to the course fees) and return your signed contract to secure your place. Your deposit is returned after successful completion of the programme and removal of your Graduate Show installation. If you withdraw from the programme without successfully completing it, or fail to satisfactorily remove your Graduate Show installation (and we incur costs to do so), we will keep your deposit.

Funding 

We’re an independent institution, so our courses are not subject to public funding. There is therefore no exemption from fees for under 19 year olds or access to student loans.

Refunds 

Once you’ve returned the signed contract and paid your deposit, you have a 14-day cooling off period to change your mind. If you choose to cancel during this time, we’ll refund your full deposit.

You’ll need to pay your tuition fees before the start of the programme. If you decide to cancel after the 14-day period and before the fees are due, your deposit will not be refunded. If you decide to withdraw once you’ve started the programme, you will be liable for the first term’s tuition fees and will not be refunded your deposit. If you decide to cancel your contract or withdraw at any point, you should do so in writing using the form provided.

You will need to give a full term’s notice of withdrawal, informing us by the last teaching day of the previous term: your notice period cannot start part way through a term. If it does, you will be liable to pay full fees for the term’s notice period. Should you need to, you can suspend study for up to 12 months. Please see our withdrawal and interruption of study policy for more information.

Please see our Terms and Conditions for more information on Fees.

We consider each application on an individual basis and welcome candidates from a variety of backgrounds.

You’ll attend a 30-45 minute interview with one or two tutors to discuss your application and review your portfolio. This can be done via Skype if needed – please get in touch to find out more. Remember, this discussion is also an opportunity for you to ask us questions!

As part of this, we’ll assess your key artistic skills, level of ability, and enthusiasm to explore new ways of working and develop your ideas. We’ll also evaluate your awareness of artistic concepts, and the cultural, historical and professional contexts of fine art. We’ll review your personal statement and any academic references provided (if applicable).

Although no formal qualifications are required, you’ll need to demonstrate work at least of Level 3 (A-Level) equivalent. In some cases, we may ask to see additional supplementary work.

Intake is only in term one (September). Entry is typically at Stage 1, but we may allow direct entry to Stages 2 or 3 if we think you have appropriate prior qualifications and experience – please get in touch to find out more.

Portfolio

You’ll need to bring along a portfolio to your interview, containing:

• 10 to 15 pieces of original finished work, which show your technical ability in a range of media. Please bring photographs of 3D installation work. If some of your work is digital, please bring this on a device to show it.
• One or two sketchbooks showing your own areas of interest, individual thought process or development process of finished work.
• One example of writing, critical study work or exploration of other artists.

If you don’t have all of the above, get in touch to talk to us about alternatives.

English language requirements

All applicants are required to demonstrate an appropriate level of English language competence to study with us. This can be through previous study in English (evidencing an approved English language qualification at Level 2, GCSE or equivalent). If you are unable to provide evidence of a relevant, formal English qualification, we will require specific performance in written English tests at interview. Appropriate level of spoken English is assessed at interview.

Admission policy 

We do not sponsor international students through the Tier 4 visa system and therefore cannot accept international students unless they are able to prove right of residency in the UK.

We operate a fair and transparent admissions process to ensure that the widest range of people can benefit from the fine art education we provide; find out more in our Admissions policy and Criminal Convictions Policy and Procedure.

Academic regulations and policies

When studying with us, it’s important that you are aware of our Academic Regulations and Policies. These outline the agreed procedures and protocols to ensure you understand both the expectations and support available to you. To find out more information please see our Academic Regulations and Policies page.

Our open days offer an invaluable opportunity to find out more about our facilities, courses and tutors, and to meet members of our vibrant and welcoming community. If you’d like to attend an open day, please complete the booking form here.

We welcome all enthusiastic candidates to apply. If you are interested in studying with us, please register to attend an open day or email academiccourses@artacademy.org.uk or call +44 (0) 20 7407 6969 to discuss our courses further or arrange a visit.

Application deadline

We accept applications on a rolling basis. You should note that applications are subject to availability and will not be accepted if the programme has reached capacity.

More information can be found in the Admissions Policy.

How to apply

To apply, download the application form here. You’ll need to make sure you are using the latest version of Adobe Reader.

You can then send us your completed form via email to admissions@artacademy.org.uk., or by post (along with at least five images of your work) to:

Admissions Team, Art Academy London, Mermaid Court, 165A Borough High Street, London SE1 1HR

Remember, the application form is your first opportunity to tell us about yourself, as well as being a vital source of the information we need to make a decision. Please take your time to complete the form accurately and remember to check you have provided all the information required, including the link to your digital portfolio. We only accept applications on the form provided and reserve the right to reject incomplete or alternative applications.

Should you have any questions about the application process or completing the form, please speak to a member of the Admissions team.

The result

We’ll normally tell you our decision within three weeks. There are three possible outcomes, detailed below.

Conditional offer: this means we will offer you a place providing certain conditions are met before registration on the programme e.g. the completion of outstanding qualifications. Each offer is specific to individual circumstances.

Unconditional offer: this means you’ve met the academic and non-academic entry requirements and have been accepted onto your chosen programme.

Unsuccessful application: this means we have decided not to offer you a place on the programme. Applicants can be unsuccessful for many reasons and should be aware that many of the programmes at the Academy receive far more applications than number of places available.

Feedback on the decision will be given to any applicant who requests it. We will always ensure that the interviews and portfolio reviews are carried out fairly and equally. All those conducting interviews are trained to do so and fully conversant in our Admissions Policy. Although decisions to admit or reject applicants are academic judgments and therefore cannot be appealed, if an applicant feels that the interview and selection process was not conducted fairly and equitably or as described in our Admissions Policy, the process for making a complaint in this regard can be found within the policy document.

Next steps

You will be notified of the outcome by email. If successful, you’ll also receive: an offer letter, the Terms and Conditions (contract) which you will need to sign and return along with your deposit, and copies of the Student Handbook, Programme Handbook and Academic Regulations. By accepting an offer you agree to abide by the Academy’s Regulations.

You’ll also be invited to our Graduate shows, to get a sense of the community and see what you can achieve by studying with us.

Prior to starting you will be sent the course documents for the Elective Skills Workshop courses and have a meeting or phone conversation with a member of the Academic Team to discuss and agree your choices for the first term. Part-time students will also need to decide on individual routes through the first stage of the programme.

Application process

We are committed to supporting accessible learning and welcome students with disabilities and special educational needs.

Disclosure

We encourage you to disclose any disabilities or special needs when you apply, so we can plan any support that we may need to provide at the earliest opportunity, including during the admissions process. Admissions decisions are always made on the basis of a candidate’s ability and/or potential to complete the programme.

Accessibility and reasonable adjustments 

Provided that a candidate is suitable for the programme applied for, we will make reasonable adjustments for applicants with a physical or mobility impairment in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Our premises are old buildings, which means that access to some areas can be problematic for people with a physical disability. This will continue to be an issue for the immediate future and all our premises are currently inaccessible to wheelchair users.

Therefore, where possible, we make appropriate arrangements to hold interviews, classes, workshops, tutorials, exhibitions and other events in accessible spaces in our Mermaid Court and Newington buildings, and can provide alternative storage spaces where these may normally be in inaccessible areas. We are also currently completing a number of works to our main building in Mermaid Court, London Bridge, to improve access and facilities for wheelchair users, including a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

This means that from September 2019 we will be able to accommodate most students with physical disabilities on our academic programmes.

Some of our buildings will remain inaccessible for the foreseeable future (our second building at Mermaid Court and the second floor of our Newington building). We are committed to improving access to all our buildings and are working towards making all areas of our campus fully accessible to all.

Hearing technology for hard of hearing/deaf applicants 

Portable induction loops can be provided during open days, interview and in teaching spaces if required.

Other disabilities and conditions

If you have any other disability, specific learning difficulty, health, or mental health difficulty, please contact us to talk about options for support.

Student support

SEN students

We welcome students with Special Educational Needs. A bespoke programme of Elective Skills Workshop courses will be mapped if necessary, and alternative assessment models employed where appropriate to provide a parity of opportunity with non-SEN students. Our Head of SEN will act as a personal tutor and first point of contact for all SEN students, and will also ensure that all other tutors working with SEN students understand that student’s needs and how to support them. In the final year of study, SEN students may be given additional support as necessary as they work towards their Graduate Show.

The Head of SEN, and other staff members as relevant, will keep in regular contact with the parents of SEN students if appropriate, including meeting with them to discuss the progress of the student and any issues arising in their course of study.

Disabled students

Students or applicants who declare a disability, specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia), long term health condition or mental health disability are asked to complete a ‘Student Declaration and Identification of Support Needs’ form. This is in addition to the declaration requested at application and is intended to ensure we capture the information we need to ensure a safe and successful educational career at the Academy. A member of the Academic team will then contact the student to discuss their individual support requirements and agree actions, which are made available to relevant tutors and support staff, informing them of any services and adjustments required.

If you don’t find the answer to your question here please contact the Academic team on +44 (0) 20 7407 6969 or email academiccourses@artacademy.org.uk.

Can I study the BA (Hons) Fine Art part-time?

Yes, part-time students attend two days a week over five years; it takes four years to complete Stages 1 and 2, and a further year to complete Stage 3.

Are bursaries or student loans available for the BA (Hons) Fine Art?

The BA (Hons) Fine Art is superseding our successful Fine Art Diploma, but because it’s new course, those studying on it are currently not eligible for student loans. We can offer advice on possible sources of funding for students. See the ‘Fees and Funding’ section above for more details or contact us to discuss your options.

Do you take mature students for the BA (Hons) Fine Art?

Yes, applications from mature students are welcomed. Mature students make up a large part of our community.

Do I need to have done any formal training before applying for the BA (Hons) Fine Art?

No, but the BA (Hons) Fine Art is for those intending to make art their full-time occupation. During interview, we will consider your level of ability and commitment through discussion and portfolio review.

Is the BA (Hons) Fine Art recognised or accredited?

We are currently working with a validating partner to ensure our BA is accredited.

Do I need to supply my own materials?

Yes, materials are not included in your tuition fee costs. For more information on material costs see the ‘Fees & Funding’ section above.