They are founded upon the disciplines of painting, sculpture and printmaking, which form the basis of the development of the study of Fine Art within the Schools. These disciplines are fundamental to the traditions that the Schools are proud to uphold. The diversity of artistic practice within the framework is integral to the ethos, along with the selection of students upon their individual artistic merit. The eclectic mix of students contributes to the ambition and vitality of the Schools. The Schools offer students of exceptional ability and promise the opportunity to develop their ideas and working practices and provide a foundation to their careers as professional artists.
Teaching is based upon the individual's capacity for self-critical analysis.
Students are expected to be able to identify the context in which they see their own work and to contribute to the advances of Fine Art practice within their chosen medium. The small size of the Schools allows students to interact, move freely between specialist areas and contribute to our creative environment. The Schools are not affiliated to a university, giving us a unique status in postgraduate Fine Art education. To maintain this creative freedom, the Schools are supported by the Council of the Royal Academy and the Membership of Royal Academicians. Students are often unable to continue in art education because of financial considerations.