Why study Art & Design?

It is fun. Studying this subject gives you the opportunity to explore and experiment with a wide variety of interesting materials, techniques and processes. It’s hands on, allowing you to develop key skills in the manipulation of paint, print making, collage, clay and other forms of sculpture and construction.

It is useful. This subject gives you invaluable problem solving skills that can be transferred to other subject areas. Students who are creative in their thinking are able to approach a task in a multitude of ways, experimenting and exploring until they reach an informed outcome. Art and Design teaches you to think with an open mind, find alternatives and tackle any situation with real creativity.

It is everywhere, all around you. From the clothes you wear, the built environment you live in to the mobile phone you use or computer games you play. They’ve all been designed by someone with a creative mind. Studying Art & Design gives you the insight into how an idea can develop and grow into something tangible, real and truly remarkable.

It is current. The creative industry is huge. By studying Art & Design you too could join the many students that go on to build successful a future in careers such as Graphic Design, Architecture, Fashion, Photography, Illustration, Animation, Product Design, Interior Design, Print making, Special effects, Production design, Jewellery design... The list goes on!

Our Vision for the department

In the department we believe that education is inclusive and strive to provide an exciting and challenging curriculum which reflect the needs of all our pupils; unlocking their creative potential and making them feel supported. We are committed to our students and their learning and wellbeing, offering a subject that teaches core skills in a variety of materials, techniques and processes. We engage pupils making them want to learn, be successful and enthusiastic about Art & Design.

Aims of the Art & Design Department

• To encourage and develop creative thinking.

• To nurture the imagination of our students.

• To develop students skills in drawing from observation.

• To provide students with the opportunity to explore and use new materials; understanding their properties.

• To aid students understanding of the role of artists, crafts people and designers; past and present.

• To develop students analytical and evaluative skills when studying their own and others Art & Design work.

• To encourage students to view their environment and the world around them and use it as artistic inspiration.

• To encourage and develop independent learners.

• To nurture reflective Art & Design practitioners.

• To build confidence and a sense of pride in our students.

• To provide opportunities outside the classroom such as competitions, clubs and workshops.

• To aid students with the creative tools to express themselves.

• To foster the artistic and design talents of the UK’s future artists, crafts people and designers.