Art and Design
Subject Overview
The Art department is located in the Coniston Building and is a visually stimulating and dynamic environment where students experience a broad and varied curriculum. High achievement is encouraged through an engaging programme of high-quality teaching and learning. We foster an inquisitive approach and encourage independent learning. It is our aim for each individual to strive to achieve their best as they explore, develop and refine new skills, ideas and experiences. Students are well supported by dedicated staff but also experience a developing level of independence and more opportunities to explore their own creative interests, ideas and specialisms. Resourcefulness is promoted by encouraging pupils to work independently, developing practical skills, planning their own projects and problem solving as they go along. We also expect pupils to work collaboratively both with each other and within the local community. This enables pupils to gain an insight into joint ventures, working within industry and the local environment.
Art and Design Staff
| Miss McHugh | Subject Lead of Art and Photography |
Key Stage 3 Art and Design Curriculum
At KS3, our Art and Design curriculum provides students with a rich and varied experience, developing both technical skills and creative confidence. Pupils explore a wide range of techniques including observational drawing, painting, 3D modelling, printmaking and digital media, allowing them to experiment and express ideas in multiple forms. They are inspired by the work of contemporary artists while also gaining an understanding of historic art movements, making meaningful connections between past and present. Projects are designed around engaging and current themes that students can relate to, ensuring creativity feels relevant and exciting. Across half-termly projects, students steadily build and refine their skills, developing independence, critical thinking and a personal style that prepares them for further study in the arts
Key Stage 4 Art Curriculum
At KS4, our Art and Design curriculum enables students to build on the skills gained at KS3 while developing a deeper understanding of the GCSE OCR specification and assessment requirements. Students are encouraged to refine and expand their use of different mediums, techniques and processes, while also exploring more personal and ambitious ideas. Through guided teaching and independent exploration, they begin to create their own sustained projects, developing a unique creative identity and a confident artistic voice. The curriculum fosters independence, critical analysis and resilience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to meet the GCSE expectations and to pursue further studies or careers in the creative industries.
Key Stage 4 Photography
At KS4, our Photography curriculum allows students to expand on their creative and technical skills while gaining a clear understanding of the GCSE OCR specification and assessment objectives. Students learn to refine their knowledge of digital photography, editing software, and a range of photographic techniques and processes, from studio lighting to experimental image-making. They are encouraged to explore and respond to the work of both contemporary and historical photographers, using this as inspiration to inform their own practice. As the course progresses, students begin to design and develop independent projects, experimenting with style and subject matter to build a personal creative identity. The curriculum nurtures independence, critical thinking, and technical confidence, preparing students for success at GCSE and beyond in the field of photography and the wider creative industries.
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time”
Thomas Merton
1915 – 1968
