Art

Intent 

Art and Design is an important part of the children’s entitlement to a broad and balanced curriculum at Summerlea School. Art education opens possibilities and opportunities for our children to learn how to express their creativity and communicate their values, thoughts and ideas as well as understand more about societies and cultures.

A high-quality art and design education engages, inspires and challenges pupils, it equips them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design through visual, tactile and sensory experiences and a special way of understanding and responding to the world.

Art enables all children to communicate what they see, feel and think through the 7 elements (line, shape, form, space, texture, value/tone and colour) and principles of art (balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity/variety) using different materials, techniques and processes.

We want children to enjoy exploring their creativity using a wide range of media and to be given the time and space to better understand themselves, build confidence and self-esteem to result in significantly contributing to their general well-being. 

As pupils progress through our school, they will develop their appreciation and understanding of visual communication and the ability to think critically. As well as studying specific artists and imitating a particular style, the children are encouraged to innovate, use their own creativity, and think deeply about the story or inspiration behind the artwork. They record their creativity in an individual high-quality sketchbook from Year 1 onwards. 

They also explore how art and design has helped to shape our history, culture, creativity and wealth of our nation.

Implementation 

The teaching and implementation of the Art and Design Curriculum at Summerlea School is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework and National Curriculum as well as being linked to the year group's termly topics which provide a well-structured approach to this creative subject.

Through each phase of their primary education the children will develop their knowledge, understanding and application of the techniques and skills used in collage, sculpture, drawing, painting, textiles and digital media. 

They will explore the work of local, national and international artists, influential in the past and present, to enhance their learning and develop their awareness of art and art forms.

Each unit of work follows a similar process consisting of five key steps (artist study > practising skills and techniques > design ideas > final piece > evaluation). 

Children are encouraged to evaluate their own and others' work and pupil voice is a key component of their learning journey, captured in their sketchbooks as part of this process. 

The children’s learning is further enriched by visiting artists sharing their expertise and inspiring the children through art projects where the children have the opportunity for collaborative and independent learning activities. Our children talk enthusiastically about their experiences in art and design lessons and can share examples of their work produced in their sketchbooks and in classroom displays.

Impact

By the time children leave Summerlea School, they have studied a range of artists and designers, have formed personal opinions about their preferred styles and techniques and have had the opportunity to practice and hone their skills.

They are ready to explore art and design in greater depth in secondary school with a secure foundation of skills inspired by their knowledge and understanding of artists and artistic experiences.

Children at our school enjoy art and are proud of what they achieve. Art and design in all its forms is celebrated across the school and can be seen on display and in the children’s sketchbooks. Children are willing to explore and explain their ideas and many have earned the personal, learning and thinking badge for being a Creative Thinker. 

We believe that artistic creation can provide fulfilment in life, can heighten perceptions and can contribute to cultural understanding.

To view our Art curriculum, click here.