Art

Art & Design 

At Isleham we aim to nurture creativity, imagination, and self-expression 

At our school, Art & Design is about much more than making pictures. It is about developing creativity, imagination, and visual literacy, while giving children the confidence to experiment, take risks, and express their ideas. Our curriculum is designed to help pupils think like artists and designers, exploring a wide range of media, techniques, and traditions. 

How our Art & Design curriculum meets statutory guidance 

Our scheme of work fulfils the requirements of the National Curriculum for Art & Design. It ensures pupils: 

  • Produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording experiences. 

  • Become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture, and other art, craft, and design techniques. 

  • Evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft, and design. 

  • Learn about great artists, craft makers, and designers, and understand the historical and cultural development of their art forms. 

What children learn 

  • Practical skills: Drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, collage, textiles, and digital art. 

  • Creativity and imagination: Experimenting with materials, techniques, and ideas. 

  • Critical reflection: Evaluating their own work and that of others, using artistic vocabulary. 

  • Cultural appreciation: Learning about artists, designers, and craftspeople from different times and cultures. 

Our approach 

  • Spiral curriculum: Key skills and knowledge are revisited and built upon each year, ensuring progression from EYFS through to Year 6. 

  • Inclusive and ambitious: Every child is encouraged to participate and succeed, regardless of ability. 

  • Cross-curricular links: Art often connects with History, Geography, and other subjects, enriching children’s learning. 

  • Cultural breadth: Pupils encounter art from a wide range of traditions, styles, and periods, broadening their horizons. 

Developing wider skills 

Art & Design also develops transferable skills such as: 

  • Creativity and innovation. 

  • Confidence and resilience when experimenting. 

  • Communication and collaboration. 

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving. 

Assessment 

  • Formative assessment: Ongoing observation, sketchbook work, and discussion help teachers check progress. 

  • Summative assessment: End-of-unit outcomes and reflective tasks provide evidence of achievement and progression. 

Long-term plan 

Each year group explores a range of engaging topics, for example: 

  • Year 3: Drawing skills, colour mixing, and sculpture inspired by nature. 

  • Year 4: Printmaking, textiles, and studying artists from different cultures. 

  • Year 5: Perspective drawing, digital art, and exploring great designers. 

  • Year 6: Advanced painting techniques, sculpture, and critical studies of modern and historical artists. 

Skills for life 

By the end of primary school, pupils will have developed the confidence to create, the curiosity to explore, and the ability to appreciate art in all its forms. Most importantly, they will leave with a lifelong love of creativity and self-expression.