‘Every child is an artist. The problem is to remain an artist once they grow up.’

- Pablo Picasso

Intent

At Runnymede St Edward's Catholic Primary School, our Art and Design curriculum aims to inspire, engage and challenge all pupils, enabling them to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to express themselves creatively. Rooted in our Catholic ethos and our school mission, “Have courage, do good, seed will grow in the children's hearts,” we encourage pupils to recognise and develop their God-given talents, celebrate creativity and appreciate the beauty of the world around them.

Our carefully sequenced curriculum ensures that pupils progressively develop their knowledge and understanding of artistic techniques, including drawing, painting, printing, sculpture and other forms of creative expression. As pupils move through the school, they build upon prior learning, refining their practical skills and becoming increasingly confident and independent in their artistic choices.

We believe that art education should extend beyond the teaching of practical skills. Pupils are introduced to a diverse range of artists, designers and craftspeople from different periods, cultures and traditions. Through studying their work, pupils develop an appreciation of artistic styles, techniques and the ways in which art reflects and influences the world around us.

Sketchbooks play an important role in our curriculum, providing opportunities for pupils to explore ideas, practise techniques, experiment with materials, develop their creativity and reflect upon their work. Pupils are encouraged to take creative risks, make informed choices and develop their own artistic responses.

We enrich our curriculum through opportunities to work with local artists, explore art across other curriculum subjects and celebrate pupils' creativity through displays and exhibitions. These experiences help pupils recognise the value of art within both their local community and the wider world.

Our ambition is for every pupil, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, to access a rich and inclusive art education. By the time pupils leave Runnymede St Edward's, we want them to have developed secure artistic knowledge, practical skills, creativity and an appreciation of art that will continue to enrich their lives.

Implementation

Art and Design is a valued part of our curriculum at Runnymede St Edward's Catholic Primary School. Our carefully sequenced curriculum enables pupils to progressively develop their artistic knowledge, understanding and practical skills as they move through the school.

Pupils are taught a range of artistic techniques, including drawing, painting, printing, sculpture and working with different materials. Teachers build upon prior learning, providing opportunities for pupils to practise, experiment, refine and apply their skills with increasing confidence and independence.

The study of significant artists, designers and craftspeople is embedded throughout our curriculum. Pupils explore different artistic styles, techniques and traditions, developing their ability to observe, appreciate, discuss and respond to works of art. We aim to equip pupils with the knowledge and confidence to appreciate art in museums, galleries and the wider world.

Sketchbooks provide opportunities for pupils to explore ideas, practise techniques, record observations and reflect upon their artistic development. Pupils are encouraged to make creative choices and apply their knowledge and skills to produce their own artwork.

Art is celebrated throughout our school environment, with pupils' achievements recognised through displays, our pupil art gallery and Headteacher and Governor Awards. Additional enrichment opportunities, including Art Club and working with local artists, further develop pupils' creativity and appreciation of the subject.

Teaching is adapted to ensure that all pupils, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, can access the curriculum, develop their artistic skills and experience success.

Impact

At Runnymede St Edward's Catholic Primary School, we assess the impact of our Art and Design curriculum through ongoing formative assessment, sketchbook reviews, pupil voice and evaluation of completed artwork.

Throughout each unit, pupils practise and develop three identified artistic skills, which they then apply to create a final independent piece. Pupils self-evaluate their work, reflecting on the techniques used, their achievements and areas for improvement.

Teachers assess pupils' developing knowledge, skills and understanding through discussion, questioning, retrieval activities and knowledge organisers. Sketchbook reviews and pupil voice enable subject leaders to evaluate progression, identify gaps in learning and inform future curriculum improvements.

Our aim is for pupils to become increasingly skilled, creative, confident and independent artists who can appreciate, discuss and produce artwork using their developing artistic knowledge.