Intent

At St Mary’s, we believe that art, craft and design embody some of the highest forms of human creativity. They can give a voice to the imagination, wisdom, emotions and character of a child. Our high-quality art and design education engages, inspires and challenges our pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art.

Implementation

Art activities are planned systematically in order to progressively build up skills and knowledge throughout the pupils’ journey across the school and within individual learning journeys. We ensure that all children are given opportunities to be inspired by the creative arts through community links, access to a diverse range of professional artists and a wide range of after school clubs. Across the school, pupils encounter a wide range of artists and artworks from different cultures, periods in history, and genders. We encourage exploration, individuality and team work, ensuring that children feel that their work is valued. Subject specific vocabulary is made explicit to encourage the language of art. Risk and innovation are encouraged in all year groups because preconceptions can stifle creativity. As a school, we are less focussed on an outcome and more focussed on the creative journey, so that, rather than potentially constraining pupils’ understanding and learning, they are enabled to be truly creative.

Impact

When pupils leave the school, their learning in art will have enabled them to become confident, independent artists who can articulate and value their own creative journeys. They will be able to think critically and have developed a rigorous understanding of art and design. Their understanding of how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our communities and the world is an important part of this process.