In Art and Design, we develop the skills, which enable students to record and express their feelings, ideas and observations.
Students explore visual, tactile and other sensory experiences to communicate ideas and meanings. They work with traditional and new media, developing confidence, competence, imagination and creativity.
Within the department projects are planned to conform to the aims and objectives as outlined, this ensures that all areas are being covered in the key stage and that progression and continuity can be purposefully built in.
Art is available for all students at Key Stage 3, and as an option at GCSE and A Level. In addition to the curriculum art lessons, the department also run a very busy co-curricular programme of activities, events and competitions. We follow the National Curriculum for art and design which aims to ensure that all students produce creative work, explore their ideas and record their experiences. We teach them to become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craft and design techniques. Students learn to evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft and design. We introduce them to a variety of past and present great artists, craft makers, photographers and designers, and so they have an appreciation and understanding of the historical and cultural development of their art forms. Visiting artists and trips out also enrich the experience for all students.
Students learn to appreciate and value images across times and cultures, and to understand the contexts in which they were made. Students reflect critically on their own and other people’s work, judging quality, value and meaning. They learn to think and act as artists, craftspeople and designers, working creatively and intelligently. They develop an appreciation of art, craft and design, and its role in the creative and cultural industries that enrich their lives.
The two year OCR GCSE course in Art and Design, Fine art, consists of coursework, now called the personal portfolio, and an Externally Set Task, set by the exam board. Preparation is to be brought to the 10 hour assessment. The theme is set externally, internally assessed and externally moderated.
Typical Activities
Visiting artists deliver bespoke workshops and visits to Gallery’s further the experience.
At A Level we follow the OCR syllabus for Fine Art where students’ complete coursework and an Externally Set Task. Students are also able to study for A Level Photography.
Through studying Art, you will explore in depth the use of the formal elements and how they work together successfully to create exceptional outcomes. You will develop a range of skills with a wide range of materials and resources and be encouraged to address each theme with your own creativity, informed by a range of artists.
Year 12
Component 1: Personal Investigation: You will begin your Personal Investigation in Term 3 of Year 12. You will select your owns theme, research from primary and other sources and contexts. You will start to develop ideas using media and process exploration, producing a sustained practical investigation and ongoing review with a personal response, demonstrating connections
to contexts. You will also do a Related Study using words and illustrations demonstrating the context in which your portfolio exists, exploring the relevant genre, subject matter, movement or historical framework of your selected theme.
Year 13
GCSE Art Grade 6 if studied, or portfolio assessment and GCSE English Grade 5.
Consider also Mathematics and/or Physics if you want to study Architecture at university.
