Art

Intent

We provide a structured and sequenced approach to lessons that supports teachers in covering the skills outlined in the national curriculum. Our intent is to ensure all pupils engage in producing creative and imaginative work. Children are encouraged to explore their ideas, record their experiences and evaluate the work of others. Through this, they become confident and proficient in a wide range of techniques including drawing, painting, sculpting and selected craft skills such as collage, printing and pattern-making. They also build knowledge of renowned artists, designers and craft makers. The curriculum aims to develop curiosity and interest in art and design through progressive lessons that develop both skills and knowledge, while offering opportunities for children to ask questions and showcase their abilities in diverse ways. These lessons also support emotional expression through art, enhancing personal, social, and emotional development.

Implementation

Each year group is guided by distinct themes that sustain engagement in the subject and support the acquisition of new knowledge. The lessons we have suggested are designed to develop pupils’ techniques—enhancing their control and use of materials—through creativity, experimentation, and a growing awareness of diverse forms of art, craft, and design. Children should also understand how art and design both reflect and shape our history, contributing to the culture, creativity, and wealth of our nation. We have outlined a specific series of lessons for each year group, providing structure and narrative that enable children to recall and build upon previous work from similar genres.

Impact

Art and design learning is enjoyed by teachers and pupils across school. All children use technical vocabulary accurately and pupils are expected to know, apply and understand the matters, skills and processes specified. Children improve their enquiry skills and inquisitiveness about the world around them, and their impact through art and design on the world. Children will become more confident in analysing their work and giving their opinion on their own and other works of art. Children show competences in improving their resilience and perseverance by continually evaluating and improving their work. All children in school can speak confidently about their art and design work and their skills. Children are able to link their art to the wider world and how it can benefit positive mental well-being