A research project exploring the lost history and legacy of British Art and Design Classes, 1945 - present day

Like much of the history of art schools, the history of Saturday Art and Design Classes is difficult to locate. It relies on piecing together various archival documents and the gathering of oral histories. Our research so far suggests that Saturday Art and Design Classes emerged out of the closure of Junior Art Departments from the 1950s, and the classes were a key pathway into creative careers for young people who had an enthusiasm for art.

Exploring the history of Saturday Art and Design Classes offers an important opportunity to reflect on the current state of British Arts Education provision, and how we might develop ways to improve students' access to creative careers.