Why UAL Short Courses are perfect for Creative 11 to 18 Year-Olds
- Written byLoana Rondot
- Published date 29 January 2025
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UAL Short Courses offer the perfect opportunity for 11 to 18-year-olds to dive into the world of contemporary art, fashion design, digital media, illustration, photography, and more. With courses tailored to your age and skill level, these dynamic programs provide an excellent foundation for creative growth and future study.
A wide range of unique creative courses
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, UAL Short Courses have something for everyone. Our courses are designed for young artists at every stage, offering hands-on learning in:
- Art and design: Explore techniques and concepts shaping today’s art scene
- Fashion design: Learn how to bring your clothing ideas to life.
- Digital media: Dive into animation, graphic design, and digital storytelling
- Illustration: Develop your drawing style and learn professional techniques
- Photography: Master the basics of composition and camera use
- Fashion Styling and Makeup: Learn professional skills from industry experts
Each course helps students build skills, gain confidence, and develop portfolios, which are invaluable for future studies or applications.
Designed with young learners in mind
Our courses are split into two age brackets to ensure the content and teaching style are appropriate:
- 11 to 15 Year-Olds: A supportive, structured environment where younger learners can experiment and grow. Students must remain on campus during the course day, fostering a sense of community and focus.
- 16 to 18 Year-Olds: A more independent approach, allowing older students to explore their creativity while preparing for higher education or creative careers. Students are permitted to leave campus during lunch breaks, encouraging autonomy.
Flexible, inclusive learning for all levels
UAL Short Courses are open to all levels—no prior experience required. Whether you're exploring a new hobby or deepening an existing passion, our expert tutors provide personalised guidance to help you thrive. With small class sizes, you’ll receive individual support to advance your skills and knowledge.
Isaac, student on the Fashion Design for 16 to 18 Year-Old Short Course, appreciated the chance to develop his skills: “I’ve studied textiles at GCSE, and I’m currently studying it at A-level. I wanted to explore textiles in a more fashion design route, so I joined the course to explore more and to develop my own skills.”
Build a portfolio and earn recognition
Our portfolio-focused courses are ideal for students considering future study in art and design. Through experimentation and guided projects, you'll learn foundational skills, explore new materials, and create work that showcases your talent.
While the goal isn’t to complete a finished portfolio, you’ll leave with pieces that can be included in future applications. Additionally, every student who completes a course earns a UAL Short Courses digital badge and certificate. These digital credentials are a fantastic way to celebrate your achievements and stand out in university applications, CVs, or online profiles like LinkedIn.
Showcase your creativity through inspiring projects
Short Courses give students the chance to explore creative ideas through hands-on projects that develop both technical skills and conceptual thinking.
Isaac shares the inspiration behind his project: “It’s all about revealing the intricacies of scaffolding buildings around London. I took some first-hand photos of scaffolding, and, like, it’s being hidden. So I wanted to experiment with different mediums and materials that would explore this idea of intricacy, such as recycled plastic bags.”
Zeina, student on the same course, describes her work: “My project is about how we are all interconnected, through our skin and through our veins. So I took inspiration from our bodies and what’s inside them. I looked at close-ups and found interesting colours and netting, and things that make us all human.”
Learn from experts in creative education
All courses are taught by experienced tutors and industry professionals. You'll benefit from their first-hand insights into creative careers and higher education while experiencing what it’s like to study at one of UAL’s world-renowned colleges. Whether on-campus in London or online, you'll engage in a supportive, inspiring environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
Zeina explains why she chose UAL for her short course: “I'm applying to Central Saint Martins in a few months, and I thought this was the perfect opportunity to come see the campus. I really enjoyed the experience.”
Isaac reflects on his experience: “It was very fun. We got to meet different people from around the world, make friends, and critique each other’s work. We received feedback on what we could improve on in our work and helped other people improve as well.”
Easy booking and safeguarding policies
Booking a UAL Short Course is simple—there’s no application process, and places are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Early booking is highly recommended, especially for summer courses, which fill up quickly.
UAL is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for young learners. All tutors undergo enhanced DBS checks, and safeguarding policies are strictly followed to ensure the well-being of every student.
Free resources for creative exploration
Not ready to commit to a course? Explore our free Future Creatives activities, designed for kids and teens aged 7 to 15. These resources are perfect for experimenting with different art styles and techniques from the comfort of home.
Ready to unleash your creativity?
Discover how UAL Short Courses can inspire your artistic journey. Whether you’re looking to explore a new medium, build your portfolio, or simply have fun creating, our courses are the perfect place to start. With expert guidance, a welcoming environment, and recognition for your achievements, there’s no better way to nurture your creative potential.
Browse our large range of courses for teenagers and start your creative adventure today!
