Intent

In KS2, pupils learn about the formal elements of art: line, tone, shape, colour, texture, observation and 3-d qualities, laying a sound foundation of artistic skills and knowledge. In KS3, we aim to secure mastery of these formal elements through a range of exciting and evolving schemes of work. A high quality art curriculum aims to inspire, engage and challenge problems, equipping children with the skills and knowledge to experiment, invent and create their own work.

As pupils progress, they should be able to think critically and develop a more rigorous understanding of art and design. We aim to stimulate creativity, develop a love of art through self-expression which is particularly appropriate for pupils who find it difficult to access other areas of the curriculum, broadening their opportunities for success.
 

Implementation

Pupils develop their visual literacy skills through their knowledge of art history and focus artist. Pupils develop their ability to speak confidently about artists, their messages, the processes and materials they have used, which adds depth and breadth to pupils existing knowledge of key artists and movements in history. Pupils are encouraged to discuss artwork, share ideas, knowledge and opinions to gain a greater understanding of the projects and activities they complete and the artwork they create.

We ensure that the act of exploring and making includes creating and developing ideas, evaluating, reflection and improving work. Teachers draw attention to good examples of individual performance as models for the other pupils. They encourage pupils to evaluate their own ideas and methods, and the work of others, to say what they think and feel about them. Pupils also have the opportunity to use a wide range of materials and resources including other artists’ work. Pupils develop knowledge and skill when working with a range of materials and techniques for example; painting, stencils, pastels, collage, ceramics, photography and editing using information technology, to name a few.

We recognise the fact that we have pupils of differing ability in all our classes, and so we provide suitable learning opportunities for all children by matching the challenge of the task to the ability of the child, so every child can get the most out of the art curriculum. Pupils also have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of materials and techniques and explore areas of art which excite them to develop a passion and love for the arts and finding their area of strength in their practise.

Impact

By the end of KS3 we would aim to produce a cohort of pupils who naturally demonstrate strong resilience and perseverance and are engaged in their creative work. In addition, pupils should demonstrate that they can work independently, are able to organise their time, materials and equipment and who can demonstrate their use of visual language with growing confidence.

Evidence of all of this is developed in sketchbooks. All high quality artwork produced including 3-D work, is often used as display in key areas around the school. This enriches the creative ethos of the school and has a high impact visually whilst elevating the status of pupils whose work is on show.

Pupils are encouraged to bring in artwork that they have completed independently at home and pupils who show strong potential or interest are invited to attend art club and gifted and talented sessions which are held regularly throughout the year.