Frequently Asked Questions

What sets your classes apart from others?

Our art programme blends creativity with technical skill, helping students build confidence and ability. Highlights include:

  • Small, friendly classes with a 7:1 teacher:student ratio

  • A structured curriculum developed by artists and educators

  • Projects that strengthen fine and gross motor skills through creative exercises

  • Exposure to classic and contemporary artists, with a focus on modern British art

  • A unique badge programme created by us to encourage children to take on creative challenges outside the studio

We balance structure and freedom to keep students motivated, engaged, and happy. Whether your child is joining weekly term-time classes, holiday workshops, or preparing for GCSE/A Level, they will love art-K.

What ages do you teach?

  • Children from ages 6–18 (trials for those turning 6 in the month are considered). Select studios are currently offering 5-6 year old classes. 

  • Projects are tailored to age and ability, with room for personalisation.

  • Advanced classes support GCSE and A Level students with additional options and resources.

Do you run mixed-age classes?

  • Our 6–16 year-old classes allow each student to work on age-appropriate projects.

  • Younger students enjoy inspiration from older peers, while older students feel like role models.

  • Projects alternate between 2D and 3D, exploring different media and styles curated over 20 years of teaching children.

  • Individual tutoring is provided throughout the group session.

Do we need to bring anything? Are materials provided?

  • All art materials are included.

  • Students should bring water bottles and wear clothes they don’t mind getting paint on.

  • Aprons are not provided or stored.

  • Acrylic paint may stain; using alcohol-based hairspray can help remove it from clothing:
    – Spray the clothing with the hairspray.
    – Scrub the stain with a brush.
    – Wash the clothes with detergent as normal.

What happens in a trial?

  • Trials let children meet the teacher and experience a class session.

  • Primary students start with age-appropriate drawing exercises, then move to a main project like clay.

  • Secondary students begin with drawing or tonal exercises before progressing to painting.

  • Students follow the same lesson structure as the main class and feel part of the studio from the start.

  • Book your trial session here

Why do you charge for trials?

  • Paying for the trial ensures the correct number of staff and materials for the session.

  • The cost covers staff, equipment, and materials used during the lesson.

How often will children take home their work?

  • Starter projects: 2–3 weeks

  • Main projects: 2–6 weeks or longer, depending on age and engagement

  • Trial work stays in the studio until completed in a later session.

Will my spot be reserved for the term if I book a trial?

  • Booking a trial holds your spot for the term.

  • After the trial, you can book the rest of the term online.

  • Unconfirmed bookings are released 72 hours after the trial.

How do make-up lessons work at art-K?

  • Each student is entitled to up to 5 make-up sessions per term, subject to availability.

  • Make-ups must be booked within the same term as the missed session.

  • To use a make-up session, you must cancel your missed class online at least 48 hours before the scheduled start time.

  • Make-ups are available in most studios from week 4 onwards.

  • Step-by-step to cancel and book a make-up:

    1. Log in to the Parent Portal.

    2. Click the ‘cancel’ option next to the session you want to miss, then confirm.

    3. If eligible for a make-up, select ‘Book a make-up class’.

    4. Choose your preferred day and click ‘Info and booking’.

    5. Select the make-up date from the drop-down list, then click ‘Enrol now’.

    6. Confirm your booking and check your confirmation email.

  • Please note: Make-up sessions cannot be rescheduled to another date once booked.

  • See the full Parent Guide to Make-Ups for more details.

Can my child pick their own projects or drawings?

  • Our projects are designed to balance structure and creative freedom.

  • Each child contributes to their artwork while developing artistic, motor, and visual skills.

  • Teachers provide guidance to ensure all students can achieve creative growth in the studio.

What are the differences between weekly term-time classes and holiday workshops?

  • Weekly classes: Focus on long-term skill development through a structured series of projects.

  • Holiday workshops: Condensed sessions where projects are completed in 2 hours, with a fun and social atmosphere.

Do you run birthday parties or group events?

  • Art parties and group events are available for children and adults at our studios and off-site venues.

  • Children create art to take home, while adults enjoy structured yet relaxed creative activities.

  • Learn more about our parties and events here.

Can I pay weekly/monthly?

  • Exceptional circumstances may allow payment plans; contact your branch manager for details.

Can you help with art scholarships and GCSE portfolios?

  • Yes, we support portfolio creation for scholarships and GCSE. We also sell a GCSE art manual to support students outside of our classes.

  • Tailored programmes may involve additional charges depending on the level of support.

  • Full portfolio requirements here.

Can my child with SEN attend?

  • Everyone is welcome.

  • Our teachers discuss individual needs and accommodate children as best as possible.

  • Behaviour policies apply equally to all students.

How does art-K ensure children’s safety in the studio?

  • Keeping children safe is something we take very seriously at art-K. Please read our full Safeguarding policy here.

  • Parents are not allowed inside during classes to maintain a safe environment.

  • All staff are DBS checked and trained in health, safety, and child safeguarding.

Can my child attend if they are unwell?

  • We ask that parents use the booking portal to cancel the class with as much notice as possible if a child is unwell and will be absent.

  • Where there is less than 48h notice before the class, parents will need to contact the studio to discuss make-up availability.

  • For the safety of our staff and students, and as with schools, we ask that students are kept away from the studio for 48h following contagious infectious illnesses e.g. the flu or viruses involving vomiting and diarrhoea.If a student becomes ill during the class, teachers will contact parents to request early pickup.

Where can I read independent reviews of art-K?

Other practical questions

  • Can I stay with my child?

    • Arrive 5 minutes early if needed; the art leader will guide your child to settle, then parents leave.

  • Can I pay by bank transfer?

    • Payments must be made online; bank transfers are not accepted.

  • Child Care Vouchers / Tax-Free Childcare

    • Accepted where applicable; links to online calculators are provided on booking pages.

  • Discounts

    • 3rd sibling: one-third off

    • DPP: up to 75% discount (conditions apply)

  • Lockdowns / online learning

    • In-studio teaching continues where permitted.

    • Online learning available if schools are closed.