Portfolio Guidance, Mentoring and Coaching Programmes

The Centre for Open Learning's Portfolio Guidance, Mentoring and Coaching Programmes draw upon the knowledge and expertise of professional art and design practitioners and educators within the University of Edinburgh.

Portfolio Guidance

Are you preparing to apply to a UK university or college for an art or design course? Do you need expert guidance on how to build a compelling portfolio that tells a strong visual narrative? 

Our tailored Mentoring Programme sessions are designed to support you in crafting a portfolio that showcases your artistic strengths and conceptual depth.

If you are planning to apply to a UK art and design institution, our online mentoring programme is here to support you every step of the way. Created specifically for international students, this service offers personalised 1:1 guidance from experienced Teaching Fellows who will act as your Mentor. Through the programme, you will gain valuable insights, practical advice, and a clear understanding of how to build a strong, creative portfolio that showcases your best work.

Flexibility is at the heart of what we offer. You can book sessions at times that suit you throughout the year, making it easy to fit mentoring into your schedule. No matter where you are in the world, you will have direct access to expert advice—without the need to travel.

Woman putting art docs into a portfolio

Mentoring and Coaching

The Mentoring and Coaching Programmes within the Centre for Open Learning draw on the expertise of professional practitioners and educators from the University of Edinburgh. Working with a mentor or coach can reinvigorate your artistic practice, helping you navigate challenges, plan a creative pathway, and progress towards your goals. Whatever stage you are at, just beginning in the Arts, recently graduated, or developing as an early- or mid-career artist, we offer support tailored to your needs.

You can choose a one-off meeting (‘Mentoring’) or engage in a series of sessions (‘Coaching’) focused on exploring your ideas and practice. In both formats, a mentor provides guidance, insight, and constructive feedback, helping you build on strengths and identify areas for development.

Please note:

• Sessions can be online, in person, or a combination agreed by both mentor and mentee.

• For online sessions, you must be able to share your work and use Microsoft Teams.

Male teacher advising students on their computers, in a classroom

There are three options available, explore the fees below and find out which option would suit your needs. The Booking Process for each option is also explained.

Find out more about the mentors who you will work with on the Art and Design Mentoring and Portfolio Guidance sessions at the University of Edinburgh.