We aim to give each pupil the opportunity to develop their skills and talents in a range of traditional and digital media and to become creative individuals, through a variety of ever-changing projects designed to keep ideas fresh and exciting!
We aim to inspire pupils in Year 7, 8 & 9 to:
- Think, observe and question
- Understand the creative process
- Explore and experiment
- Engage in art activities with wonder and curiosity
- To take risks and become comfortable with ambiguity and not knowing
- To understand how and why art is made
Overview of the GCSE Curriculum
We encourage our students as creative individuals to find their own strengths and interests and to be innovators. The annual art exhibition celebrates the wonderfully diverse range of artwork that our students create, ranging from large paintings, prints, photographic and art textile outcomes to innovative installations. The course starts with a structured and guided approach as students learn new skills and ways of working and gain confidence in their understanding of the assessment objectives. As we move through the course students take ownership of their projects, completing a sustained investigation in response to a chosen theme, evidencing the journey from initial engagement with an idea to realising intentions and this work forms their ‘Portfolio’.
In January of Year 11 students have free choice from one of seven starting points for their externally set assignment. A further practical project with a preparation period culminates in 10 hours of unaided supervised time in which they will create a personal response. The art examination is often a highly enjoyable experience being able to sit and create over a sustained period of time.
Enrichment Opportunities & Trips
The department is always busy at lunchtimes with ‘Open Studio’ sessions for GCSE and A Level students, Lower School Art Club and support sessions for those students competing in ARTiculation, an annual public speaking competition. We also offer an Art Clinic after school for those wanting extra support or who just enjoy working on their portfolio in our lovely bright Art room.
There are plenty of other opportunities beyond the classroom, from the weekly Aperture Club Photography Challenges, to workshops with visiting artists and of course the annual school Christmas Card Competition. Art students excel in ISA Arts competitions and students' work is selected annually for the Living Edge Arts Exhibition. GCSE Art students have the opportunity to attend the Conway residential weekend. We have forged excellent links with local Photographers who have provided workshops and work experience opportunities.
