The Art Department
We are a very successful department that thrives on new challenges, discovering contemporary and innovative artists/photographers and practising a wide variety of techniques.
We have three Art professionals that bring to the department a plethora of skills, experience and enthusiasm. We have three specialist Art rooms and one Year 12/13 private Art/Photography study area with a Photographic studio and a Mac computer suite.
The department prides itself on offering an excellent array of pupil experiences, including many trips and visiting artists. Within our Fine Art specialisms, we practice printmaking, observational drawing, installation, painting, mixed media, textiles etc. We also offer A Level Photography which has brought to the department new technologies and exciting outcomes.
Our Vision
The Art Department strongly believes in the value of Art for every student. We encourage creative thinking, artistic expression and strive to boost self-esteem. We motivate, inspire and challenge students of all levels. We develop students’ visual and communicative skills, enabling them to express themselves through a visual language. We nurture students to become well rounded, independent and imaginative individuals.
Our Aim
We aim to provide every student with a broad knowledge of art skills and art history. We continue to raise the profile of Art and Photography and extend the ‘reach’ of the Art Department within the School and local community.
We aim to ensure that all students:
- produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording their 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
- know about great artists, craft makers and designers, and understand the historical and cultural development of their art forms.
Year 7 Curriculum
Year 7 provides a foundation year for pupils working in a specialist area, increasing their confidence and skills within a range of processes and techniques. It begins with a drawing course which leads into paint, printmaking, collage and other media. Experience across a number of projects is supported by reference to the work of other artists, styles and cultures. This phase of the course is concerned with establishing good practices and building a visual vocabulary.
Year 8 Curriculum
In Year 8, pupils continue to develop the skills and techniques already covered and extend their ideas into a more independent form of expression. In practical work, this will include drawing, painting, three-dimensional work including clay. They continue to consider the cultural and contextual aspects of the subject and apply this knowledge more fully in their own work. Peer and self-assessment are key factors throughout to help the pupils understand their goals more fully and to increase confidence.
Year 9 Curriculum
All pupils in Year 9 will develop a wide range of skills, through experiencing the use of a variety of materials and techniques. Our work covers a variety of practices, from observational drawing, painting, print making, three-dimensional techniques to fashion design. These skills are further enhanced by the study of the work of artists, craftspeople and designers. Our Art and Design course builds progressively as a means of enrichment, understanding and enjoyment within a well-defined structure of knowledge and practical skills. As such, it provides a sound basis for pupils to make informed choices at a later stage.
Art & Photography Exhibition Photos 2022
Art & Photography Exhibition Photos 2019
Art & Photography Exhibition Photos 2018