Art, Design and Photography

The Art Department delivers a broad curriculum, designed to ensure that all students reach their full potential, become independent and take intelligent risks in a fully supportive environment. It seeks to challenge, motivate, and cultivate an appreciation and passion for creative processes in Art, Design and Photography. Whilst encouraging further thinking beyond classroom study.

Teaching and learning resources are adapted to meet individual needs and delivered by specialist teachers. The department has three fully equipped Art rooms, ceramics area, dark room and a designated 6th form area. We listen to students, are aware of current employment trends and provide them with the tools needed for success. They are taught to respond to and interpret visual imagery through Artist studies, observation and imagination, utilising a wide range of mediums. Artists, Photographers and Craftspeople from a variety of cultures and eras are explored, informing creativity and promoting diversity. 

As students progress through Foundation Level, they will develop a greater understanding of these disciplines and the world around them. KS4 students are trained to think critically as an artist, be creative, experimental and ambitious in their independent projects. A Level students are armed with the confidence and technical refinement necessary to further develop techniques and working practices. This allows for ambitious and highly individual outcomes.

Wider curricular activities, such as weekly art club, gallery and exhibition trips consolidate learning. We ensure that students from disadvantaged backgrounds are involved in these. This provides them with valuable exposure and cultural capital, which minimises inequality and promote success.

In summary, critical thinking, self reflection, creative development and the ability to evaluate artworks are used to enhance students’ communication and interpersonal skills. They are challenged to grow from their mistakes. This essential experience provides great learning opportunities, builds character and teaches them resilience. Thus, all the qualities needed to flourish in society.