Secondary Curriculum
Art & Design
Why Study Art?
Art engages pupils with their own culture as well as with the wider world. Pupils explore how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation. The study of Art and Design supports the development of fine motor skills, hand eye coordination, language skills, social skills, decision-making, risk-taking, lateral thinking, complex analysis, problem solving, and inventiveness.
How will I study art?
Our Art & Design curriculum provides pupils with the opportunity to demonstrate imagination and creative flair. Pupils are able to develop and refine their drawing and observational skills through sketching a range of everyday objects and primary images and making their work personal. Pupils will also have contextual references which they refer to when producing artwork in lessons or throughout a project. Pupils have the opportunity to experiment with and select methods and approaches, synthesise observations, ideas and feelings to create compositions for paintings, mod rock, clay, textiles and other creative responses. They are encouraged to explore their artistic styles by studying a range of artists and movements and their ‘drawing and making’ styles.
What will I study at key stage 3?
During Key Stage 3, pupils study the formal elements of Art and Design. The curriculum covers an introduction to drawing through still life, illustration, graphics, and abstract expressionism. Observational skills are developed through photography and portraiture. As they progress through KS3, pupils’ study historical and cultural design through architecture. They engage in the creation of landscape paintings, printing techniques, sculpture and mixed media. Pupils also learn about art movements and other contextual references as well as their connection to societies, cultures and moments in time.
What will I study at key stage 4?
GCSE Art and Design – Fine Art
During Key Stage 4, Fine Art pupils work to a selection of themes including Natural Forms and Identity. This involves investigating the work of existing artists and exploring their use of materials, techniques and processes. Pupils will respond to the theme through a series of research and practical-based tasks. They will immerse themselves in the creation of art using a range of media and approaches. As they develop their skill and understanding, pupils will refine their ideas and gain confidence through experimentation and exploration. Pupils will gather inspiration from primary sources and first-hand experiences to help them develop personal and meaningful works of art. Pupils will create a portfolio which consists of sketchbooks, canvases and design boards.
Assessment at Key Stage 4
GCSE Art & Design (Fine Art) AQA 8202
| Overview | Focus |
|---|---|
| Component 1 – Portfolio 60% of GCSE |
Pupils develop responses to initial starting points, project briefs or specified tasks and realise intentions informed by research, the development and refinement of ideas and meaningful engagement with selected sources. Responses will include evidence of drawing for different purposes and needs and written annotation. |
| Overview | Focus |
|---|---|
| Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment 40% of GCSE |
Pupils respond to a starting point provided by AQA. This response provides evidence of the pupil’s ability to work independently within specified time constraints, realise intentions that are personal and meaningful and explicitly address the requirements of all four assessment objectives. |
Enrichment
We offer subject-specific enrichment clubs and organise a range of educational visits throughout the year. Pupils can take part in school-wide competitions, as well as representing the school in local and national competitions designed to increase their engagement and enhance their subject knowledge. We offer regular lunchtime clubs so that pupils can access the Art classroom and explore different medias without constraints. We hold an annual Art Exhibition to showcase the work of pupils throughout all year groups.
Careers
Engagement with Art can lead to future careers ranging from illustrator, graphic designer and jewellery artist to architect, digital content creator, fashion designer and photographer.