The Art Curriculum at St Elisabeth's CE Primary School

 

Art Curriculum Design

Art, craft and design embodies some of the highest forms of human creativity. High quality Art education should engage, inspire and challenge pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art and design. As pupils progress, 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.

Our bespoke art curriculum is designed to develop knowledge and skills that are progressive, enabling children to strengthen both critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The process of creating art gives children choices and urges them to make decisions – a crucial skill that translates into all other aspects of life. Art is a language that allows children to express and develop their ideas and emotions; artistic activities are full of processes that help children to grow and stimulate their creativity while nurturing the soul.

Art stimulates both sides of the brain increasing the capacity of memory, attention and concentration. It introduces children to new vocabulary and concepts and generates memories and images which enriches their intellect and imagination. Children also improve and acquire social skills, their self-esteem is promoted and art gives children a way to express themselves and their ideas. Through art, children will build a progressive skill set enabling them to be persistent and consistent.

Our curriculum is divided into three main strands:

2D - Drawing and Painting

3D -  Developing a Perception of Depth

Print and Mixed Media (textiles is also covered within the D&T curriculum)

Throughout the children’s art education at St Elisabeth’s, their skills through each strand are progressive and build upon prior learning, showing a clear development and comprehensive knowledge. The focus of our art curriculum is all about individual learnt processes not prescribed outcomes:

Early Years children will learn about exploring and using media and materials, they will safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques experimenting with colour, design, texture, form and function. (Early Learning Goal)

They will also learn how to be imaginative. Children will use what they have learnt about media and materials in original ways, thinking about uses and purposes. They will represent their own ideas, thoughts and feelings through design and technology, art, music, dance, role play and stories. (Early Learning Goal)

Building on the skills and knowledge acquired, in Early Years, Key Stage 1 children will learn how to use a range of materials. They will have ample opportunity to draw, paint and sculpt, developing techniques of colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form and space. Additionally, they will learn about a range of artists, craftspeople and designers.

Key Stage 2 children will use sketchbooks to collect, record and evaluate ideas. They will improve mastery of techniques such as drawing, painting and sculpture with varied materials. They will also continue to learn about great artists, architects and designers.

The impact of this art and design curriculum is that children will critique their own and other’s artwork by asking open and closed questions. They will become reflective of their own work and discuss how to improve their artwork next time. Children will understand that art is made by a variety of people in a variety of ways. They will know that they are all artists.

The children’s learning journey in art and design is assessed each term using the current assessment framework self and challenges.