Subject Leader: Mrs Walklett

“Creativity takes courage.” – Henri Matisse

Art

At Cheetwood Primary School, we believe art gives children the opportunity to express themselves, explore ideas and build confidence in their creativity. We want our pupils to enjoy being artistic, feel proud of what they create and develop curiosity about the world around them through art and design.

Our Art curriculum helps children become confident, creative and thoughtful artists who are willing to try new things, take risks and learn from the process.

Our curriculum is carefully planned in line with national guidance, including the EYFS Statutory Framework and the National Curriculum for Art and Design. We use the Kapow Art and Design scheme, alongside Design and Technology on alternate half-terms, to ensure lessons are well sequenced and consistent across school.

How we learn in art

Our art curriculum is built around four key areas that children revisit each year as their skills grow.

Art and Artists
Children learn about a wide range of artists and how art is created in different times and places. This helps them understand how art reflects culture, history and the world around us.

Generating Ideas
Children think creatively, share their own ideas and try things out in sketchbooks or on paper before creating final pieces.

Making
Pupils learn to use a variety of tools, materials and techniques to create their own artwork. They practise skills such as drawing, painting, sculpture and craft as they move through school.

Evaluating
Children look at their own work and the work of others. They talk about what they like, what they have learned and how they could improve their artwork next time.

What art looks like in school

Across the year, children take part in practical, creative lessons where they:

• draw, paint, build and create using a range of materials
• learn about artists and styles from around the world
• use sketchbooks to practise and develop ideas
• create their own final pieces of artwork
• talk about their learning and celebrate their progress

Skills are built step by step as children move through school so they become more confident and independent. Teachers model techniques and vocabulary, break learning into manageable steps and adapt lessons so that all pupils can succeed and be challenged.

Early Years

In Nursery and Reception, children explore art through play and hands-on activities. They develop skills in mark making, painting, construction and imaginative play through well-resourced continuous provision. Creativity and exploration are at the heart of learning in the early years.

The impact of our art curriculum

We want children to enjoy art and feel proud of their work. You will see this through:

• creative sketchbooks and finished pieces
• children talking confidently about their artwork
• displays that celebrate creativity across the school

By the time they leave Cheetwood Primary School, pupils will:

• create imaginative and personal artwork
• be confident using a range of techniques
• talk about artists and their work
• be ready for art learning at secondary school

At Cheetwood Primary School, we are proud that our approach to art helps children grow into confident, creative individuals who enjoy expressing themselves and exploring the world through art.