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Art and Design

Intent

Our intent for Art & Design in our primary school, utilising the Cornerstones curriculum, is to provide a rich and inclusive learning experience that nurtures creativity, develops artistic skills, and fosters an appreciation for the arts. We aim to:

  • Encourage Creativity: We inspire pupils to express themselves creatively through a variety of artistic media and techniques.

  • Develop Artistic Skills: We build foundational skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and other art forms, tailored to the diverse needs and abilities of our mixed-age classes.

  • Foster Critical Thinking: We promote critical thinking and visual analysis through the exploration of art and design, both historical and contemporary.

  • Ensure Inclusivity: We create a supportive environment where all children, regardless of age or ability, can engage with and enjoy the art-making process.

Implementation

Our Art & Design curriculum is structured around the Cornerstones framework, encompassing the phases Engage, Develop, Innovate, and Express. This approach ensures that art education is engaging, progressive, and appropriate for our mixed-age classes.

  1. Engage:

    • Inspiring Introductions: Pupils are introduced to art concepts and techniques through stimulating and accessible activities. This might include exploring famous artworks, participating in art-themed workshops, or engaging with local artists.

    • Interactive Experiences: Activities are designed to capture pupils’ interest and imagination, with content and projects adapted to be age-appropriate yet engaging for all learners in the mixed-age setting.

  2. Develop:

    • Skill Building: Pupils develop their artistic skills through structured lessons and hands-on projects. Instruction is differentiated to cater to various developmental stages, ensuring that each child can progress according to their abilities.

    • Collaborative Learning: Emphasis is placed on collaboration and peer support, with opportunities for older pupils to mentor younger peers and work together on group projects.

  3. Innovate:

    • Creative Exploration: Pupils are encouraged to experiment with different materials, techniques, and styles. This phase promotes innovative thinking and allows children to explore their individual artistic voices.

    • Real-World Connections: Projects are linked to real-world contexts and contemporary art practices, helping pupils understand the relevance of art in their lives and society.

  4. Express:

    • Artistic Presentation: Pupils present their work and reflect on their artistic journey. This phase includes opportunities for self-assessment, peer feedback, and public display of their creations.

    • Celebration of Art: We celebrate pupils’ artistic achievements through exhibitions, showcases, or class displays, fostering a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work.

Impact

The implementation of the Cornerstones framework in our Art & Design curriculum leads to significant outcomes for our pupils:

  • Enhanced Creativity: Pupils demonstrate increased creativity and originality in their artwork, exploring and expressing their ideas in diverse ways.

  • Developed Artistic Skills: Pupils acquire and refine skills in various artistic techniques and media, evidenced by the quality and variety of their art projects.

  • Increased Engagement: The engaging and relevant nature of the curriculum fosters high levels of pupil enthusiasm and participation in art activities.

  • Improved Collaboration: Working in mixed-age groups enhances pupils’ ability to collaborate and support one another, with older children providing guidance and younger children contributing fresh perspectives.

  • Greater Appreciation of Art: Pupils develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of art, both their own and that of others, through critical analysis and exposure to different art forms.

End-of-unit assessments enable us to gauge pupils’ progress and plan for future learning and mastery.

By following the Engage, Develop, Innovate, and Express phases of the Cornerstones curriculum, we ensure that our Art & Design delivery is not only educational but also inspiring, inclusive, and impactful, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts and preparing pupils to explore their creative potential fully.