9 free and affordable art schools and courses outside uni

With university fees often topping £10,000 a year, many emerging creatives are rethinking the traditional path into the arts. The good news is that a formal degree is no longer the only option. Across the UK, individuals and organisations are creating spaces where you can grow your practice, meet like-minded people and explore new ideas — all without burning a hole in your pocket. We’ve rounded up some of the programmes, courses and collectives helping to make art education more accessible, so you can find the support and inspiration you need, wherever you’re at in your creative journey.