In Key Stage 3, we endeavour to give pupils a broad and varied experience of Art and Design, and they will attain a wide range of specialist skills in: drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, clay work and printmaking. Each topic is linked to the formal elements of Art: Line, Tone, Colour, Texture, Shape and Space and will also develop a cultural link within.
During key Stage 3 students will explore, develop and consolidate skills, knowledge and understanding, which will prepare them when starting GCSE Art.
In Key Stage 4 we offer Entry level and GCSE Art and Design with the examining board OCR.
The courses offer a diverse and exciting curriculum that empowers individuality and fosters innovation. We offer a stimulating environment where students can develop their creative flare and generate ambitious artworks.
Portfolio sketchbooks are used to document the artistic journey, sources and direction. Through studying both historical and contemporary works, pupils will analyse and evaluate a series of relevant artists and designers. They will produce personal responses to show the development of their conceptual ideas, through sustained and focused investigations. We support students in exploring and experimenting with different media, materials, techniques and processes. They will reflect on their progress, and as a result, review and refine their artwork. Finally, the students will present meaningful outcomes outside of their portfolios, which realise intentions and link directly to their preparatory work.
Educational visits will help students to put their learning into context and enable them to collect primary sources which will inform their independent learning.
Component 1 – Portfolio
60% of GCSE/Entry Level grade
Pupils will produce a portfolio of work, which will be selected from 2 projects undertaken during the 2-year course.
Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment
40% of GCSE/Entry Level grade
Pupils will produce personal work in response to 1 of 5 starting points on the OCR externally set assignment paper. Following a preparatory period, pupils will have 10 hours of supervised time to create a refined and meaningful outcome.
We offer an extensive programme of enrichment opportunities for our students from art trips to museums, art galleries and artist studios to lunchtime clubs, after school Key-Stage 3 clubs and Key-Stage 4 booster sessions.