Be ready to paint right from Week 1! You will be sent a materials list when you enrol, as well as the term’s project. Art shops such as Jacksons will have everything you need; there is also a school shop, where you can buy all the basics you want. You’ll need the paints and brushes given on the materials list, Zest-it (NOT white spirit or turps), linseed oil, painting surfaces as set out in the project, rags and or kitchen roll, and a palette (you can buy tracing paper for this from the school shop). A sketchbook will also be needed.

You should ideally have at least some initial oil painting experience, and a working knowledge of the basics of colour mixing and paint handling; your tutor will help you where you feel uncertain. A willingness to take risks and experiment is the main thing to bring to the course.

You can continue with the course, progress to the advanced class, explore other courses at PSAD, go on to further study including foundation, BA and MA, or develop your own independent practice. Your tutor will help you with all these decisions. New techniques and working processes will be introduced, but the emphasis will shift towards a more in-depth focus on developing a personal language so that you are able to work independently if you wish.