SubjectsArt

Our Curriculum Intent

The Art and Design Curriculum has been designed to engage, inspire and challenge students, whilst equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design. As students progress through each Key Stage, they should be able to think critically and develop a more rigorous understanding of art and design. They should also know how art and design both reflect and shape our history and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation. 

In line with the National Curriculum, the Art Department aims to ensure that all students: 

• Produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording their experiences. 

• Become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craft and design techniques.

• Evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft and design. 

• Know about great artists, craft makers and designers, and understand the historical and cultural development of their art forms.

Implementation

In Art and Design, students are taught in classes based on their KS2 Attainment Tests, often in terms of Art these are mixed ability classes. They complete a sequence of projects that follow the Academy’s four Learning Cycle system. Independent home study tasks are designed to support learning in lessons. Literacy is incorporated into lessons through reading aloud of key text, analysing artwork and application of subject-specific terminology whilst producing Artists research and evaluating their own works’ progress. 

At Key Stage 3 students progress through a sequence of projects that develop key Art skills such as drawing, painting and imaginative design. They observe and respond to the work of past and contemporary Artists and Art genres.  

During Key Stage 4 students complete a Fine Art GCSE course. They refine their technical ability whilst producing coursework using a broad range of materials and techniques in a wide variety of styles. They explore a greater range of Artists and concepts. 

Key stage 5 students can complete an A Level in Fine Art and /or Photography. During this time they become fully rounded Artists. Students follow their creative pathway, producing a Personal Study portfolio of work that can lead them into an Art career or onto a degree course. 

The Art Department provides dynamic Knowledge Organisers to both inform and inspire students during each cycle. The rigorous assessment gives detailed and high-quality feedback to students, allowing them to continuously progress in every aspect of their work. 

At every Key Stage, students are assessed on key tasks in line with the Academy’s Cycle assessments. Students’ grades are constantly reviewed and additional support is given to students in any area that needs development, within and outside of lesson time. Regular work scrutiny and Department meetings identify students or classes that need lesson adaption or a varied approach to fulfil all students’ potential. Throughout the Key Stages, students learn about the diverse range of opportunities within the World of work, through discussions, workshops and trips. 

Impact 

Art is an enriching subject that promotes well-being. During their Art experience at All Saints’ Academy students benefit from the relaxing qualities that Art brings to their lives. They have an increased awareness of their cultural heritage and diversity within the world. It teaches them to become calm and resilient, providing them with opportunities to lose themselves in their work. It enables students to process feelings, reduces stress and anxiety, and increases their self-esteem.  

At the end of each Key Stage students have developed their artistic skills and increased their knowledge and understanding of processes and concepts. They have studied a range of creative practitioners from other cultures and times. Most importantly they have a growing confidence in their own style and artistic identity.  

During Key Stage 3 students have developed core Art skills, building a strong foundation to progress into the Key Stage 4 GCSE Fine Art course. Within Key Stage 4 students make rapid progress whilst exploring more advanced techniques and a wider range of materials. At Key Stage 5 students continue to experiment and refine their work, as they specialise within a style/ genre of Art. 

At the end of Key Stage 5, the majority of Fine Art and Photography A-level students go on to secure a place at their first choice University, they have gone on to study Degree courses across the country far and wide, in a range of specialisms from Fashion through to Illustration and Game design.