Art and Design:
Our Art and Design curriculum develops pupils’ creativity, visual literacy and ability to express ideas through artistic media. We intend for pupils to build practical skills, develop an understanding of artistic techniques and processes, and appreciate how artists, designers and craftspeople communicate ideas, experiences and perspectives.
Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, pupils develop increasing control and confidence in drawing, painting, sculpture, printing, textiles and other relevant media. They learn to observe closely, experiment with materials, make purposeful artistic choices and refine their work. Pupils encounter a diverse range of artists, artistic traditions and movements, developing knowledge of how art reflects culture, history, identity and society.
Oracy enables pupils to discuss and interpret artwork, describe techniques, explain their choices and reflect on the work of others. We explicitly teach subject-specific vocabulary so that pupils can communicate their observations, compare artistic approaches and evaluate how effectively ideas have been expressed. Discussion and constructive feedback help pupils develop their own artistic judgement without diminishing individual creativity.
We value different forms of expression and recognise that pupils may communicate ideas more confidently through practical work, visual responses or spoken reflection. Appropriate adaptations, accessible materials, modelling and varied opportunities for experimentation enable all pupils to participate and develop their artistic abilities. Our ambition is for every child to become a confident, reflective and creative learner who appreciates the contribution of art to culture, identity and everyday life.
Design and Technology (DT)
Our Design and Technology curriculum enables pupils to identify needs, solve practical problems and develop purposeful products for specific users and contexts. We intend for pupils to understand how design, engineering, materials and mechanisms influence everyday life, while developing the technical knowledge, creativity and practical skills needed to design, make and evaluate solutions.
Pupils progressively develop knowledge of materials, structures, mechanisms, electrical systems, textiles, food preparation and nutrition, as appropriate to their stage of learning. They learn to investigate existing products, generate ideas, communicate designs, select tools and materials, make safely and evaluate the effectiveness of their outcomes against a clear purpose and design criteria. They understand that designing involves testing, adapting and improving rather than simply producing a finished object.
Oracy is integral to the design process. Pupils explain their ideas, discuss the needs of users, justify choices of materials and construction methods, evaluate outcomes and respond constructively to feedback. Explicit teaching of technical vocabulary enables pupils to communicate designs accurately and explain how their solutions work.
We promote thoughtful use of materials, awareness of sustainability and an understanding of how design can address real needs. Through appropriate scaffolding, accessible tools and materials, clear demonstrations and carefully adapted practical tasks, pupils with differing physical, sensory, communication and learning needs can engage meaningfully in the design process. We want every pupil to become a resourceful, reflective problem-solver who can apply technical knowledge, collaborate effectively and improve solutions through informed evaluation.
