Curriculum Intent

Art, craft and design embody some of the highest forms of human creativity. A high-quality art and design education should engage, inspire and challenge pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft 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. (National Curriculum 2014)

The National Curriculum for Art and Design aims to ensure that all pupils:

• Produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording their experiences.
• Become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craG 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.

At St Mary and All Saints CE School, we aim for our Art curriculum to provide a rich and comprehensive learning experience that enables all pupils to develop their creative skills, explore their imagination, and foster a deep appreciation for art. Through engaging and inspiring lessons, we aim to nurture the artistic abilities of our pupils, develop their confidence, and encourage them to express themselves through a variety of artistic media.

We ensure that our Art curriculum is designed to progressively develop pupils’ artistic skills and knowledge. Pupils are exposed to a range of art forms, techniques and styles, including painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and digital art. They learn about famous artists, art movements, and diverse cultural traditions, fostering an understanding and appreciation of art worldwide. Our curriculum also emphasises the exploration of different materials, textures and colour paleTes, encouraging pupils to experiment and develop their artistic abilities.

Alongside artistic skills and knowledge, we recognise the importance of art in developing pupils’ personal and social skills. By engaging in art activities, pupils are encouraged to think critically, solve problems creatively, collaborate with others and develop resilience in the face of artistic challenges. Art at St Mary and All Saints CE School is also used as a means to explore cultural heritage, promote diversity, and encourage pupils to appreciate the value that art brings to society.