Intent

Art is planned as a discrete subject throughout school. Within the Early Years, Art is taught through planned focused activities and continuous provision. Within Key Stage 1 and 2, Art is planned following the National Curriculum using the CUSP scheme of work. Art teaching is organised into blocks, with each block covering a particular aspect of art. Pupils build on their previous knowledge of key art skills and concept through planned vertical progression. Teachers plan and build on skills and concepts previously taught and ensure that skills, knowledge and vocabulary are embedded and extended, using Rosenshine’s principles. Through a consistent approach to teaching, staff ensure the children can retain information and use skills confidently within their work. Key vocabulary and artist connections are displayed on knowledge organisers within children's sketch books which outline the key learning in each unit.

Implementation

CUSP (introduced September 2024) ensures full coverage of the learning objectives outlined in the National Curriculum. Knowledge, skills, key concepts and vocabulary are carefully planned to ensure that lessons are taught sequentially and therefore embed the children’s knowledge, skills and recall of key vocabulary. Lessons review previously taught skills and provide the children with the opportunities to explore and develop their own use of the media and techniques introduced, through sketchbook work. As skills and knowledge are embedded, the children work towards using these within a main piece at the end of a unit.

Impact

Children develop a range of art skills and can use a wide variety of art media with increasing confidence. They have a good understanding of the subject-specific vocabulary used when reflecting and talking about art, and their sketchbooks show development in their use and application of different media. Children gain confidence responding to artwork and voicing their ideas. They see art as a process and can use skills and knowledge taught to inform their work. Subject leaders support staff in their planning and give feedback to staff to further develop areas of the curriculum. Throughout our school, the artwork produced is proudly displayed, reinforcing the value and importance of art within our school. Children’s work clearly highlights the understanding and skills gained through their focused work, showing a clear progression in skills throughout individual year groups.

By the time pupils leave the academy at the end of Year 6, it is our intention that they will have a secure understanding and a good grasp of seven key concepts:

• Colour
• Shape
• Texture
• Tone
• Line
• Form
• Space