Holland Park art aptitude test

[Mandzi34]

Hi all,

Just wondered if anyone had an experience with the above?

My DD did it years ago. I don't think you can second guess it, they are looking for talent and in her year the kids they picked were good - some exceptionally so.

She was part of the first intake so it may have changed since, but there was an image on a whiteboard and they had to respond. Paints, materials etc were provided. DK if it has changed since.

Thanks for the information. It's interesting to know as I know there were over 300 applicants last year and it does make you wonder how they can make a selection, or even the process.

Perhaps you can ask them? I think paints and a choice of materials must be difficult to organise for 300+. They might have gone for pencil and paper. I think quite a lot of those 300 must be too far to get a place under normal circumstances but trying on the off chance, so perhaps the genuinely talented are a minority and easier to spot.

I looked at the website and was also told they don't provide anything but pencil and paper these days. It's massively over subscribed, like most good state schools so you're right in that people living further will apply on the off chance. I am not artistic so that's why I asked as I wouldn't know a good piece of art if it hit me in the face. Thank you for your feedback :).

Well good luck to your DC. I know people have appealed on the grounds their kids are massively talented (they haven't succeeded). Makes me think there is a significant element of chance or luck!

Thanks. I am sure people do appeal! Some just can't take no for an answer. Not something we would ever do. Art is so subjective though..

Both of my children passed this year. I'm not sure how many kids were there but hundreds! There's a lot of people there who are chancing it as well as kids who are heavily tutored in art.
This year they did two pencil drawings. One of their own hand holding a bulldog clip and one of an upside down chair. They have one hour to complete this.
My children are both excellent drawers and very creative. Unless yours are too, don't bother. It's seriously competitive.
Hope this helps & good luck!