Art
Statement of Intent- We aim to develop visually literate individuals who are motivated to approach challenges positively using creative thinking.
- Through our varied and engaging curriculum, we aim to build strong skills in observation, design process techniques and experimentation using a wide range of media.
- We encourage students to broaden their knowledge and awareness of the wider world through studying a range of artists, global cultures and contexts.
- Our curriculum will enable learners to develop strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Our learners will develop the skills to verbalise critical and contextual knowledge and understanding from a variety of artists and sources.
- Homework tasks will enhance student skills in research and analysis, presentation and consolidation of techniques.
- Enrichment opportunities will offer students the chance to engage with artist workshops, external speakers, competitions and festivals.
- Our curriculum will directly enhance students’ cultural capital and encourage independent learning and experimentation.
- Our curriculum is planned around sustained progress and allows students to build key skills towards both further studies in Art, together with transferable skills valuable to any other subject.
Key Stage 3
The National Curriculum for Art and Design supports a dynamic and flexible approach to teaching and learning. It enables students to explore a wide range of media, techniques, contexts and cultural influences, fostering creativity and critical understanding. Across each term, students engage with a new theme, working towards a defined outcome that allows them to develop and apply their skills, knowledge and personal ideas. This structured approach is designed to progressively build the foundational skills and understanding required to support a smooth transition into GCSE Art, Craft & Design / Textiles Design.
Key Stage 4
Art, Craft & Design (AQA) is a diverse course that gives students the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials and techniques, including Fine Art (such as painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and mixed media), elements of Photography & Graphic Design. Students develop one sustained coursework unit and an exam unit. The course demands dedication and effort, but it is both stimulating and highly rewarding.
Textiles Design (AQA) is a creative and practical course where students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials, techniques and processes related to fashion and textile design. This includes surface pattern, fabric manipulation, garment construction, printing, dyeing, embroidery and mixed media approaches. Students develop their skills through the completion of two in-depth coursework projects, followed by an externally set exam unit. The course encourages experimentation, independence and personal expression, as well as building strong technical and design skills. While the workload is demanding, the course is highly rewarding and allows students to produce innovative and personal outcomes.
Key Stage 5
A Level (Eduqas) - Art, Craft & Design is a dynamic and exploratory course that enables students to develop advanced skills across a broad range of materials, techniques and disciplines, including Fine Art, elements of Graphic Design, Photography and Textile Design. At the start of the course, students complete a single foundation project designed to build and refine core technical and creative skills, exploring processes such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, fabric manipulation and mixed media.
From April of Year 12, students begin their Personal Investigation, working independently to develop a sustained and in-depth body of work informed by research and supported by written analysis. This continues through to February of Year 13, after which students complete the externally set assignment. The course requires commitment, independence and critical thinking, while offering a highly rewarding opportunity for students to refine their individual artistic voice and produce ambitious, personal outcomes.
BTEC Graphic Design and Photography is a practical and vocational course that enables students to develop creative, technical and professional skills across digital and visual media. Students explore a range of disciplines, including graphic communication, image-making, digital editing, branding and photographic processes, using industry standard software and equipment.
The course is structured through a series of coursework units, where students respond to project briefs and build a portfolio of work that reflects real-world creative practices. They develop skills in research, idea generation, visual communication and presentation, while also learning to manage their time and work independently. Some units are internally assessed, with an externally set assignment completed under controlled conditions.
The course requires organisation, creativity and commitment, but provides a highly rewarding opportunity for students to develop practical skills, build a professional portfolio and prepare for further study or careers within the creative industries.
Extra-Curricular
KS3 Art Club provides students with additional opportunities to develop their creativity, skills and personal interests beyond the classroom. Weekly lunchtime sessions offer a relaxed, inclusive and supportive environment where all students feel welcome to explore a range of materials and techniques, build confidence and enjoy art in a less formal setting.
For KS4, after-school sessions provide focused time for students to extend their coursework, refine their technical skills and receive additional guidance to support their GCSE studies.
KS5 students have access to the art studio, allowing them to work independently, develop their Personal Investigation and experiment with materials on a larger and more ambitious scale.
These extra-curricular opportunities encourage creativity, independence and a passion for the arts, supporting students in developing their artistic practice and achieving their full potential.
Curriculum Information
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