Art

ART & DESIGN

Within this department, we aim to open up children’s ideas and equip them with the tools for confidently talking about Art and about life. Pupils will be more aware of the world around them: nature. Colour, texture, shape etc. They will understand more about the different ways people live, for different reasons. Pupils will enjoy freedom to explore materials, techniques and different working methods.

We believe that pupils should develop a firm grasp of basic techniques and processes, through practical activities and the study of a wide variety of Artists from different times and cultures and that pupils should come to understand purpose and context in looking at Art as they learn to use Art as a means of expression in their own, individual way.

We also aim to educate pupils in the practices of contemporary Artists, designers and craftspeople, so that they are equipped to further their Art education and choose relevant careers, should this be the path they follow. They should be able to respond to a brief, for a specific outcome and to loose starting points.

We firmly believe that each and every child can grow and achieve through the study of Art, in their own unique way. We aim to ensure that children take away something positive that can help them to develop as well rounded and informed individuals.

Key Stage 3
The course will gradually allow the pupil to develop an understanding of the formal elements of art and design. They will work in a variety of media including, painting and drawing, printing, 3D and textiles. They will work towards level targets which set out the knowledge, skills and understanding that pupils of different abilities and maturities are expected to have by the end of the Key Stage.

Key Stage 4
At KS4 we offer AQA Art and Design Fine Art GCSE and Edexcel BTEC First Certifivate in Art and Design
(worth 2 GCSEs at A*-C).
At GCSE students will develop work using a variety of media and scales building on work done in Key Stage 3. Critical studies play a very important part of the courses and students regularly research, discuss and analyse the work of others throughout the course.
Coursework is worth 60% of the final grade followed by a ten hour practical controlled test that will give the remaining 40%.

BTEC First Certificate in Art & Design is a practical, work-related course. Students learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. It introduces students to the employment area of Art & Design and provides a good basis to go on to a more advanced work-related qualification.