Art

Art and Design

Intent

At Milverton Primary School and Pre-School, we see Art and Design as a subject that nurtures pupils’ creativity, imagination, curiosity and appreciation of the visual world. We believe that high-quality Art and Design lessons inspire children to express themselves, explore ideas and develop the confidence to think and work like artists, designers and craftspeople. Our children are encouraged to experiment with a wide range of materials, tools, techniques and processes, developing their practical skills alongside their knowledge and understanding of art, design and visual culture.

Pupils will explore the work of a diverse range of artists, designers and craftspeople from different periods, cultures and traditions, learning how art reflects personal experiences, identities, communities and the world around us. They will be taught to analyse and interpret artwork, make connections between different artists and artistic movements, and use these influences to inform and develop their own creative ideas. Through drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, textiles and other media, pupils will develop their ability to observe, explore, experiment, design, create, discuss, evaluate and refine their work.

We aim to develop confident, independent and reflective learners who understand that creativity involves exploration, risk-taking, problem-solving and learning from mistakes. Our Art and Design curriculum provides opportunities for children to develop their visual literacy, communicate ideas and emotions, appreciate the work of others and recognise the importance of art and design in everyday life. We encourage pupils to take pride in their achievements, value different perspectives and develop a lifelong appreciation of artistic expression.

Our Art and Design curriculum links to our School Values, We Care, We Aspire, We Belong, by encouraging pupils to care for materials, resources and the work of others; aspire to develop their creative potential through experimentation, perseverance and ambition; and belong by celebrating diverse artistic traditions, personal identities and cultural experiences. Through art, pupils develop a greater understanding of themselves, their local community and the wider world, recognising that creativity can bring people together and provide a powerful means of communication.

Implementation

• Each sequence of learning is built around key artistic knowledge, skills and concepts, including the formal elements of art: line, colour, shape and form, texture and pattern and composition. Lessons have clear learning intentions and introduce key vocabulary to help children discuss and develop their artistic understanding.
• We provide practical opportunities to explore and experiment with a broad range of materials, tools, techniques and processes, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and textiles. Children develop their technical skills, take creative risks and learn to make informed artistic decisions.
• Pupils explore the work of diverse artists, designers and craftspeople from different periods, cultures and traditions. They learn to analyse, interpret and evaluate artwork, make connections between artists and artistic styles, and use their findings to inspire their own creative ideas and outcomes.
• We encourage children to develop their ideas through sketchbooks, observational drawing, visual research, experimentation and design planning. Pupils are supported to reflect on their progress, refine their techniques, evaluate their work and the work of others, and develop resilience, independence and problem-solving skills.
• Learning is carefully sequenced to build on prior knowledge and skills, with opportunities to revisit techniques, practise key vocabulary and apply learning in new contexts. Teachers assess progress through observations, sketchbooks, discussions, practical work and finished outcomes, using this information to identify next steps and provide appropriate support and challenge. Enrichment opportunities, including workshops, gallery visits and engagement with local artists, further enhance pupils’ experiences where possible.