Art and design in our Federation

✨ Why Art Matters

We believe that Art plays a central role in nurturing the whole child. Our curriculum is not only academically enriching but also supports emotional wellbeing, creative thinking, and self-expression. Art gives children the opportunity to explore their thoughts and ideas, to reflect on the world around them, and to grow in confidence—particularly for our most vulnerable learners.

We are committed to offering a curriculum that is inclusive, engaging, and ambitious. Every child, regardless of their background or ability, is encouraged to explore their creativity, develop resilience, and take ownership of their artistic journey.

🖌️ Our Art Intent

To be an artist each child will:

• Create original artwork that reflects their own ideas and experiences

• Become skilled in drawing, painting, sculpture, and a wide range of design techniques

• Evaluate and discuss art using key vocabulary and critical thinking

• Learn about great artists, craft makers, and designers from a variety of cultures and time periods

Art is not just an expressive outlet—it is a vital means of developing transferable life skills such as problem solving, perseverance, collaboration, and respect. Our curriculum is shaped to ensure access for all, with adaptations and scaffolding in place so that every child can succeed and shine.

📈 Progression and Assessment

Art is taught through a clearly structured progression of skills, with assessment points at key stages (EYFS, KS1, Lower KS2, Upper KS2). Teachers assess pupils three times a year against specific objectives, tracking their development and identifying areas for support.

Each year starts with a baseline portrait drawing task, giving a clear view of children’s existing skills and a benchmark for measuring progress. These portraits evolve annually, focusing on different techniques and criteria relevant to each year group.

Sketchbooks are also central to assessment, providing a window into the creative process. They are valued not just for the work they contain, but for the thought, growth, and experimentation they reveal.

💬 Language and Vocabulary

Although Art is a visual subject, language plays a powerful role. Discussions during lessons are language-rich, encouraging children to describe, evaluate, and explain their choices with increasing fluency and precision.

Pupils are taught technical vocabulary explicitly, with key terms displayed in sketchbooks for easy reference. They are encouraged to reflect on their own and others’ work through thoughtful critique and peer assessment, developing their ability to think and talk like artists.

🔍 Knowledge and Skills-Based Approach

The teaching of Art in our Federation is designed to be creative, dynamic, and evolving—just like the children we teach. Staff are encouraged to personalise and adapt units, while developing cross-curricular links that are meaningful to pupils and their cultural contexts.

Sketchbooks are at the heart of the artistic journey. These books are safe spaces for children to take creative risks, make mistakes, and reflect on their progress. They are used to explore techniques, plan ideas, and document influences—showcasing the process as well as the final piece. Through individual, paired, and group work, children are supported to collaborate, take pride in their efforts, and develop as young artists.

🎨 Experience-Rich Curriculum

We strive to offer children a diverse and inspiring art experience. Our art leader ensures that pupils learn about a broad spectrum of artists, from different cultures, genders, backgrounds, time periods, and working in varied media. This diversity not only inspires pupils, but helps them to see themselves in the world of art.

Dedicated art resources are available across the school, with well-stocked cupboards and specialist supplies tailored to the needs of each class. Where necessary, we also engage with our local community for donations to support specific projects.

Art extends beyond the classroom with after-school clubs for those wanting to develop their skills further, and a whole-school art exhibition each year to showcase pupils' achievements and celebrate their creative talents.