Department overview

The Art Department is staffed by 2.5 specialist teachers and provides students with a creative and inspiring environment in which to develop their artistic skills and confidence. Students receive one hour of Art per week at Key Stage 3, three hours per week at Key Stage 4, and five hours per week at Key Stage 5.

At Key Stage 3, students build on the fundamentals of Art, Craft and Design in preparation for GCSE study. Through a range of themes, they explore the formal elements of line, shape, form, tone, texture, pattern, colour and space, alongside historical, cultural and ethical influences.

At Key Stage 4, students can study GCSE Art and Design or GCSE Photography, following the AQA specification. Projects are theme-based, with our current focus being Coast.

At Key Stage 5, students follow the BTEC Level 3 Fine Art qualification, completing four projects, including one written unit.

The department benefits from three art rooms, a kiln and a dedicated ICT suite with Photoshop.

Key Stage 3 curriculum

Throughout Key Stage 3, students develop a strong foundation in Art, Craft and Design by exploring the formal elements of line, shape, form, tone, texture, pattern, colour and space. Learning is delivered through a range of engaging themes that encourage imagination, creativity and personal expression.

Students build observational drawing skills, experiment with a variety of materials and techniques, and investigate the work of artists, craftspeople and designers from different cultures and time periods. They learn to analyse and evaluate artwork, making connections between their own work and that of others.

Through a combination of teacher-led demonstrations and independent study, students progressively develop technical skills, creative confidence and the ability to generate and refine their own ideas in preparation for GCSE study.

Key Stage 4 curriculum

At Key Stage 4, students can choose to study GCSE Art, Craft and Design or GCSE Photography, both following the AQA specification. Through a series of thematic projects, students are encouraged to develop their creativity, technical skills and personal interests while exploring a wide range of materials, processes and techniques suited to their individual strengths.

The courses are structured around the four Assessment Objectives. Students develop ideas through research and investigation (AO1), experiment with materials, techniques and processes (AO2), record observations and experiences through visual and written studies (AO3), and produce a personal and meaningful final outcome (AO4).

Independent learning is a key feature of both courses. Students are encouraged to explore artists, photographers and other sources of inspiration, refine their ideas, and take increasing ownership of their creative journey. This approach enables students to develop confidence, resilience and a strong personal response to the themes studied.

Key Stage 5 curriculum

At Key Stage 5, students follow the Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Fine Art. This vocational qualification provides students with the opportunity to develop advanced practical, creative and analytical skills while preparing for progression to higher education, apprenticeships or careers within the creative industries. The course consists of four units, including two internally assessed projects and two externally assessed units. Students explore a range of artistic disciplines, materials and processes, developing increasingly independent and personal approaches to their work. One unit focuses on professional practice and includes a written assignment, enabling students to research, analyse and evaluate the work of artists and creative practitioners. Independent study plays a significant role throughout the course, with students expected to generate ideas, investigate relevant artists, experiment with media and refine their work in response to project briefs. This encourages creativity, critical thinking and the development of a professional artistic practice.

Catholic Social Teaching

The Art Department promotes Catholic Social Teaching by encouraging students to explore themes of human dignity, community, stewardship, justice, and the common good through creative practice. Art projects provide opportunities for students to reflect on social issues, express empathy, and consider the experiences of others, fostering respect for the God-given dignity of every person. Students engage with artists, cultures, and traditions from diverse backgrounds, developing an appreciation of solidarity and global responsibility. Environmental themes are incorporated through projects that encourage sustainable practices and reflection on care for creation. Through collaborative work, discussion, and critical analysis, students learn to use visual communication as a positive force for advocacy, hope, and social change. In this way, art becomes a meaningful vehicle for living out Gospel values and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.

Enrichment opportunities

Lunchtime Work Catch-Up Sessions

Offered to: KS3, KS4 and KS5 students.

Access: Open Invite.

When: Lunchtimes.

Overview: Students can access the Art Department during lunchtime to catch up on missed work, complete projects, receive additional support, and develop their artistic skills.

Open Door Studio Access

Offered to: KS4 and KS5 students.

Access: Open Invite.

When: Throughout the school day when appropriate.

Overview: Sixth Form and GCSE students are welcome to use the department's facilities for independent study, coursework development, and teacher guidance.

After-School Art Room Access

Offered to: KS3, KS4 and KS5 students.

Access: Open Invite.

When: Monday to Wednesday after school until 3.45pm.

Overview: Students can access specialist equipment, materials, and staff support to complete coursework, extend projects, and develop their creative practice.

Educational Visits

The department offers visits to galleries, museums, and exhibitions where appropriate, providing students with opportunities to engage with original artworks, gain inspiration, and enrich their understanding of art and design.

Curriculum road map

Year 7

• Basic Skills Tone
• Basic Skills Colour
• Under The Sea
• Quentin Blake

Year 8

• Cultural Printing
• Portraiture & Masks
• Insects
• Still Life

Year 9

• Basic Skills
• Fast Food Nation
• Our Town

Year 10

• Cells
• Coast

Year 11

• Exam

Year 12

• Nature V Man Made

Year 13

• Structures

Useful websites

• Google Arts & Culture
  A vast online collection of artworks, museum tours, and curated exhibitions from around the world. Excellent for artist research and contextual studies.
• Tate Online
  High-quality resources, artist information, and exhibition content from one of the UK—s leading art institutions.
• Pinterest
  Useful for gathering visual inspiration, developing ideas, and creating mood boards for sketchbook work.
• BBC Bitesize Art and Design
  Clear and accessible support for key art techniques, processes, and theoretical understanding.
• Khan Academy Art History
  Structured learning on key artists, movements, and historical context to support GCSE and A Level study.

Careers