Expressive Art & Design

At Longmoor we are passionate about nurturing creativity and self-expression in our children. Through our carefully planned curriculum, we provide rich opportunities for children to explore, experiment, and develop their artistic and musical skills. We follow the Kapow scheme for Music and Design Technology (DT) and the Access Art curriculum for Art, ensuring a broad and engaging experience in Expressive Arts and Design.

Music – Kapow

Our music curriculum, delivered through the Kapow scheme, introduces children to the joy of making music. Reception children develop their listening skills, explore different sounds, and experiment with rhythm and melody through:

• Singing songs and nursery rhymes to build confidence and vocal skills.

• Using instruments to explore different sounds and create simple compositions.

• Engaging in movement and dance to respond to music expressively.

• Learning about musical elements such as tempo, dynamics, and pitch in a playful, interactive way.

Kapow’s structured approach ensures that children develop a solid foundation in music while having fun and expressing themselves creatively.

Design Technology (DT) – Kapow

Through the Kapow DT scheme, children develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills by designing, making, and evaluating simple projects. Key elements include:

• Exploring different materials and tools safely.

• Developing fine motor skills through cutting, joining, and assembling materials.

• Designing and making models with purpose and imagination.

• Encouraging collaborative work and communication through shared projects.

These activities help children develop resilience and creativity, laying the foundation for future design and engineering skills.

Art – AccessArt

Our Art curriculum follows the AccessArt approach, which celebrates creativity and artistic expression. Through this, children:

• Explore different art materials such as paint, clay, and collage to express their ideas.

• Develop mark-making and fine motor skills through drawing and painting.

• Learn about different artists and artistic styles to inspire their own creativity.

• Experiment with textures, colors, and patterns in a process-focused, explorative way.

The AccessArt curriculum encourages open-ended exploration, allowing children to develop confidence in their artistic abilities and personal expression.

A Creative and Nurturing Environment

At Longmoor, we believe every child is an artist, musician, and designer. We provide a nurturing environment where children feel confident to experiment and create, developing a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Through Kapow and AccessArt, we ensure that Expressive Arts and Design is a joyful and enriching part of our EYFS curriculum.