Art and Design
Art and Design Policy
Our Approach
At St Philomena’s, we believe that art and design provides pupils with opportunities to express themselves creatively, explore ideas and develop an appreciation of the world around them. Our art curriculum is designed not only to develop artistic knowledge and practical skills, but to nurture confident, imaginative and reflective learners who enjoy experimenting, taking creative risks and expressing their individuality.
We believe that every child is an artist. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to explore different materials, techniques and processes, while learning to appreciate the work of artists, craftspeople and designers from different times, places and cultures.
Our Curriculum
Our bespoke art and design curriculum is underpinned by the National Curriculum and carefully designed to ensure clear progression in knowledge, skills and techniques from EYFS to Year 6.
Learning is organised around six key strands: drawing, painting, printing, textiles, sculpture and collage. These strands are revisited and developed progressively throughout the school, enabling pupils to build upon prior learning, refine techniques and apply their growing knowledge with increasing independence and creativity.
In EYFS, children develop their creativity through exploration, experimentation and purposeful play. They encounter a wide range of materials, tools and techniques, developing their fine motor skills, imagination and confidence in expressing ideas. These early experiences provide the foundations for more structured artistic learning in Key Stage 1.
Across Key Stages 1 and 2, pupils develop their understanding of the six strands through carefully sequenced learning experiences. They explore and experiment with materials, practise and refine techniques, and make increasingly informed creative choices. Drawing and sketchbooks support pupils in observing, recording, investigating and developing their ideas.
Throughout the curriculum, pupils study a diverse range of artists, craftspeople and designers, exploring how artistic ideas and techniques have developed across different periods and cultures. Opportunities to discuss, evaluate and reflect upon their own work and the work of others enable pupils to develop their artistic vocabulary, critical thinking and appreciation of art.
Beyond the Art Lesson
Art and design is enriched through the wider life of the school, with opportunities for pupils to celebrate their creativity through displays, collaborative projects and links across the curriculum. Connections with subjects such as history, geography, religious education and design technology enable pupils to explore artistic traditions, cultural heritage and different forms of creative expression.
Visits to art galleries, museums and theatres provide valuable opportunities for pupils to experience art and creativity beyond the classroom, encounter different artistic styles and develop an appreciation of our cultural heritage. Through these experiences, pupils are encouraged to recognise art in the world around them, develop their curiosity and imagination, and appreciate the creativity and perspectives of others.
What We Want Pupils to Achieve
By the end of Year 6, we want pupils to have developed secure knowledge and practical skills across the six strands of drawing, painting, printing, textiles, sculpture and collage. We want them to use materials and techniques with increasing confidence, make thoughtful creative decisions and communicate their ideas through their artwork.
We want pupils to understand and appreciate the work of significant artists, craftspeople and designers, reflect thoughtfully on their own artistic development and recognise the value of art across different cultures and communities.
Above all, we want pupils to leave St Philomena’s as confident, creative and independent young artists, with the skills, imagination and enthusiasm to continue exploring and appreciating art in the next stage of their education.
Our Art and Design Policy and curriculum documents provide further information about curriculum content, progression and expectations from EYFS to Year 6.
