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Art

Vision

At Wolfson Hillel, we see art as an important way for pupils to express their ideas and experiences. Our curriculum provides regular opportunities to explore, experiment and create, while building the technical skills needed to communicate visually.

From EYFS to Year 6, pupils develop their understanding through three units each year, with a focus on drawing, painting and 3D work. Across all units, teaching is structured around five key areas: learning about artists and their context, use of media and tools, developing technical skills, exploring ideas and making and presenting finished pieces.

Pupils build on their techniques and use of tools year on year, developing increasing control and independence as they move up the school.

Our students study a range of artists and styles from different times and places, helping them to understand how art reflects the world around us. They are encouraged to experiment, take creative risks and learn from mistakes as part of the process. They also regularly discuss their own work and the work of others, building confidence in sharing their ideas.

By the end of primary school, pupils will have a strong foundation in drawing, painting and 3D art. They will be able to plan, create and talk about their work with confidence and will leave school able to express themselves clearly and creatively through art.

How we teach art

  • In each unit, the children focus on five key concepts – art history and context, media and tools, technical skills, creative process and making and presenting final pieces.
  • Each of our three art units per year are taught over eight engaging lessons during our art weeks. These lessons balance theory and learning with the time and space to think creatively, take risks and develop ideas.
  • Each unit uses either drawing, painting or 3D modelling as a vehicle to engage with our key concepts.
    We believe that it is important to connect art history to the thoughts and ideas of our students in class. We learn from a wide range of different artists from different cultures and times to build these connections. 

How we ensure progress in art for all pupils

  • The art curriculum is designed around key concepts which are repeated in each unit within different contexts. This supports the building of strong schemata which new learning can build on.
  • Common misconceptions are identified by the subject lead so that class teachers are able to plan for these.
  • Responsive teaching and assessment within lessons ensure teachers know what children have understood and can do so that gaps in understanding can be revisited.
  • Art activities are scaffolded to ensure all pupils are able to participate, learn and enjoy the art curriculum fully.