Art

The art curriculum fits with our whole school aims for students to learn about the work of a range of artists, designers and craftspeople and work within a range of contexts and disciplines. Students will explore and investigate contemporary and historical art as well as studying a variety of cultural traditions from around the world. This ensures that students have a deeper understanding of artistic techniques and styles.

Students will develop appropriate research skills through guidance towards self-directed research tasks. They will learn how to constructively value and judge their own work and the work of others. Students will use visual language and literacy skills to express themselves effectively and communicate ideas, which will enable them to produce creative outcomes.

Students will be encouraged to problem solve through manipulating materials, processes, responding, experimenting, and adapting their thinking to arrive at creative outcomes.

Students will be given the opportunity to experience working in a wide a variety of 2D and 3D media and materials. Teachers will provide opportunities for writing and reading in the form of artist analysis. Great emphasis is placed on sketchbook use to present development and organise visual information. To develop knowledge and understanding of art reviewing adapting and refining their work, sketchbooks will be used to encourage students to feel a sense of ownership of their work, and to provide opportunities for extended research, homework, and development of presentation skills.

Year 7 students learn basic art skills, which underpin the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to explore art and to make progress in the subject. In Year 8, students can develop on these skills through more challenging projects. The aim of Year 9 is for students to apply their skills and understanding to a sustainable development of an idea. Students develop the capacity for creative thought and action; the ability to innovate, initiate and make effective personal responses needed in GCSE art. The curriculum encourages creative curiosity, independent learning and develops critical and analytical individuals who are ready to express themselves.