Art
All members of the Art department aim to teach outstanding lessons that enrich and challenge all learners to think creatively about visual problem solving. We provide a harmonious, inviting and safe environment that encourages students of all ages and ability to feel confident artistically, and able to think creatively to develop ideas in a personalised and diverse way.
The department aims to expose each individual to the broadest spectrum of mediums; through different forms of drawing, printing and painting to ambitious 3 dimensional and mixed media approaches as well as digital manipulation through programs such as photoshop. All teachers nurture the best possible standard of behaviour from all learners. Lessons aim to be challenging, engaging and fun, with a combination of individual and collaborative activities that encourage risk taking, ownership and independence.
Progression routes & career opportunities
We encourage as many of our A Level students to go on to art school. A great next step is to do foundation studies in art and design. This is a one year full time course that allows students to develop as an artist and find their own specialism. Whilst this is encouraged, students can go from doing A Levels straight on to a degree course. This could be fine art, illustration, graphic design, ceramics, photography, textile design, interior design amongst many others.
In terms of where art could lead to as a career? Anywhere! From the creative industry through to professions such as doctors and lawyers, art equips students to visual problem solve, to think creatively, and to communicate ideas and opinions. Art teaches skills to do with working collaboratively, to think critically and to be innovative, as well as developing confidence and leadership skills.
Some careers closely linked to art qualifications are;
- Fine Arts: ceramicist, mixed media artist, muralist, painter, portrait artist, printmaker, sculptor.
- Publishing: comic book artist, illustrator, medical illustrator, storyboard artist.
- Advertising: art/creative director, graphic designer, typographer, web designer.
- Architecture: interior designer, landscape architect, urban designer.
- Computer Graphics: computer animator, concept artist, digital illustrator, motion graphics designer, video game designer, visual effect animator.
- Fashion: fashion designer, jewellery designer, makeup artist, stylist.
- Museum/Gallery: curator, dealer, gallery owner, museum educator.
- Photography/Film: cinematographer, costume designer, fashion photographer, photo editor, photojournalist, set designer, special effects makeup artist, studio photographer.
Additional information
We aim to enrich students’ learning not only by opening up our rooms at lunchtimes and running art clubs, but also by arranging trips for all year groups, both nationally and internationally.
Student leadership is a very important part of the school and within art, and we have A Level art captains who organised and deliver clubs. We also have mentors who help out in lessons and encourage younger students.
Head of Art: Paul Withyman
Art Teachers: Gregor Claude and Jamie Kilburn
Art Technician: Lyn English
Course description
KS3: Learners are introduced a broad range of disciplines, both 2D and 3D. The fundamental skills of drawing are taught, as this form the basis of all projects. An understanding of the visual elements are embedded. Projects are linked to artists and art movements to give a contextual underpinning. From Year 7 pupils have the opportunity to work with acrylic paints, clay, printing inks, collage materials and photoshop amongst other mediums.
What will you learn about?
KS3: The beginning of KS3 is based around developing drawing skills. Learners then get the opportunity to work with clay, acrylic paint, collage and print. Each project has a contextual element so the work of a range of artists can be looked at, understood and responded to.
To be successful in this subject students will need to be good at and enjoy:
KS3: A successful art student, regardless of ability should be able to show clear progress over time. Any drawing done at home will be of great benefit, whether it be drawing from direct observation, copying photos or pictures, or simply drawing from imagination. An open mind and a willingness to try new ways of working is essential. The ability to reflect on own work and the work of others is crucial and all pupils must listen to others’ points of view. Resilience and a growth mindset are key. Overcoming mistakes is the best way of learning and progressing.
Homework/extended learning
KS3: Homework is set throughout KS3 and is often be based around gathering artist research and resources to prepare them for classwork activities. Practical tasks are also set. It is useful if learners have basic resources available at home such as pencils, pens, rubber, sharpener and a beginners set of acrylic paints.
