Visual Arts

Curriculum Intent

Visual Arts offers a diverse range of interesting topics to be studied at both KS3 and GCSE. The department has endeavored to encompass modern artists and photographers to influence our outcomes and programmes of study. At KS4 we also ensure that the curriculum is enriched with an educational experience visiting and experiencing primary sources such as a city visit to London and witnessing a show then using the photographs and experiences in examination research and outcomes

Curriculum Features

Research on themes and topics
Observational drawing
Experimenting in different materials and mediums
In depth research of Artists and Photographers
Extensive annotation and evaluation
Development of design ideas
Production of final pieces in both 2D and 3D
Variety of starting points for the examination
Educational experiences - Primary sources
KS3 Cultural topic for Year 7 and Natural Forms for Year 8
KS4 GCSE we offer four subject specialisms - Photography, Fine Art, 3D Sculpture and Graphics

Co-curriculum Enrichment

Our Indian and Mexican project in Year 7 have historical context and links with Geography. The same can be said for Natural forms with Biology and Geography. Artists from different cultures and different countries are studied in-depth and we place a great emphasis on studying and appreciating forms of Art from a variety of cultures, religions and countries.

Trips are done within the exam preparation and are always linked to the AQA set questions so that we can improve the level of outcome for the GCSE.

We have on many occasions invited professionals to work with the students and have taken students to visit Art Galleries to expose them to Art in its natural setting.

Key Stage 3

Year 7

In year the students study Art and Design within the theme of Culture. The 2 projects students study are India and Mexico. The work investigates the cultural influences of that country within art and also allows students to embed skills and techniques using colour pencil, watercolour, collage, soft pastel and oil pastel. The students will learn how to research and use annotation to explain their ideas and record information. Final outcomes will be in the form of finished canvas

Year 8

In the second year of study students will extend their skill base within 2 projects based on animals Sea Life and Birds. The two projects help the students to develop observational drawing and the use of more materials and techniques developing skills to a higher level of outcome. At the end of the project students will experience creating a 3D sculpture and knowledge of how to decorate their 3D creation.

Year 9

Students undertake a Foundation Specialism year where they can get a flavour of the GCSE specialisms in Graphics, Fine Art, Photography and 3D. Within a project students will gain skills in their chosen specialism. Examples of topics include: