S1 Art & Design

Expressive Activities:

• Drawing and Painting: Students will develop observational skills and learn to use various media and techniques, such as line, tone, and colour theory. For example, they will engage in portraiture and still-life studies to enhance their expressive abilities.

• Sculpture: Introduction to three-dimensional work, where students will explore form and texture using materials like clay to create simple sculptures.

Design Projects:

• Graphic Design: Pupils will investigate design solutions in response to a brief, developing skills in creating visual elements such as logos or posters. This includes understanding the design process and applying it to projects like packaging design.

• Printmaking: Students learn printmaking techniques, applying concepts like tone and texture to convey ideas through expressive printmaking.

Critical Studies:

• Throughout the course, students are introduced to the work of relevant artists and designers, enhancing their ability to analyse and respond to various artworks. This critical engagement informs their practical work and fosters a deeper understanding of artistic contexts.

Overall, the S1 Art and Design curriculum aims to build foundational skills in both expressive and design practices, encouraging creativity and critical thinking in young learners.

S2 Art & Design

S3 Art & Design

Expressive Activities:

• Observational Drawing and Painting: Students will enhance their skills by working from primary sources, focusing on the visual elements to convey ideas and emotions. For instance, they may engage in still life projects, developing observational skills and media handling techniques.

• Portraiture: Students will study facial features in detail, often culminating in self-portraits influenced by specific art styles such as Pop Art, Post-Impressionism, or Cubism. 

Design Activities:

• Graphic Design: Students will explore design processes to create graphic pieces, such as can designs, allowing for personalisation and application of design principles.

• 3D Design: Students undertake projects like Peter Chang's bracelet design, developing knowledge and understanding of the design process, and creating personalised pieces based on their own visual stimuli or briefs. 

Critical Studies:

Throughout S3, students will investigate the work of artists and designers to develop a critical understanding of various art and design practices. This includes exploring historical and cultural contexts, which supports the development of analytical skills and prepares them for challenges in contemporary society and business.

Assessment:

Student work is continually assessed, with feedback provided regularly. Teachers discuss successes and areas for improvement on a one-to-one basis, using exemplars to illustrate success criteria. Self and peer evaluations are also employed to strengthen critical vocabulary and reflective skills. 

By engaging in these activities, S3 students build a solid foundation in both practical and theoretical aspects of Art and Design, equipping them with the skills necessary for further study and creative pursuits.