Intent

At St James, we aim to inspire children to create art pieces employing a diverse array of media and materials. We encourage our children to explore and experiment with various artistic techniques, fostering a rich environment for creative expression. Through this process, children are guided to develop a critical appreciation of art by evaluating and analysing both their own work and that of established artists.  Our curriculum delves into the historical and cultural contexts of art, enabling children to make meaningful connections between their creations and the broader artistic landscape. This exploration not only enhances their understanding of the processes involved in creating art but also cultivates a growing confidence in their artistic abilities. We aim to instil an appreciation for the integral role of art and design in society, highlighting its impact on culture and communication. By engaging with art in this comprehensive manner, we aspire to cultivate a lifelong interest in the arts, empowering children to express themselves creatively and thoughtfully throughout their lives.

Implementation

The art and design curriculum at St James is meticulously planned and structured to ensure that current learning is linked to previous experiences, with the school’s pedagogical approaches being informed by contemporary educational research. In alignment with the National Curriculum, the Primary Knowledge Curriculum has been chosen at St James, as it aspires to equip children with the essential skills necessary to invent and create their own works of art, facilitated through inspiring and challenging creative sessions. This approach guarantees that all children acquire and develop relevant knowledge and skills, fostering a deeper understanding of art and design.  To support this progression, skills and techniques are modelled by teachers who actively engage in the creation of artwork alongside the children, documenting each stage of the process for future reference. Each child is provided with a personal sketchbook, which serves as a repository for collecting, reflecting upon, and developing their artistic ideas, ultimately supporting their final outcomes. Each unit is anchored in the work of renowned artists or specific art styles, encompassing both contemporary and traditional influences. Final pieces are subject to self-evaluation by the children, recorded in their sketchbooks. This reflective practice encourages ownership of their artistic journey and celebrates individual successes, irrespective of skill level. Through this comprehensive approach, children develop an understanding of art as a vital tool for self-expression. Opportunities for showcasing children’s learning will be available throughout the school, providing essential cultural capital that enables children to share their creativity and artistic expression.

Impact

At St James, our art and design curriculum is crafted to impart not only essential knowledge and skills but also to inspire a lifelong appreciation for the arts. This curriculum fosters creativity and critical thinking in every child, encouraging them to draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of their local environment and its diverse artistic expressions. Each child enhances their skills and understanding of various techniques, alongside a comprehensive knowledge of artworks and the creative processes involved. Children will develop an awareness of the emotional resonance that the arts can evoke within themselves and their audiences. They will create personal artworks that instil a sense of pride and reflect their pursuit of excellence. Furthermore, they will recognise and embrace their identity as artists. Our educational philosophy aims to cultivate ambition within our children, instilling in them the belief that their futures are boundless. We motivate them to aspire towards careers as illustrators, graphic designers or any profession they envision, whilst celebrating their individuality and unique characteristics.