Art
BASIC PHILOSOPHY AND AIMS
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Art is a tool which develops the ability of children to express themselves. Through the disciplines practised in art, they may be able not only to better understand themselves, but also more fully appreciate the world in which they live. Pupils should be taught a wide variety of the necessary skills through which they can communicate their ideas. Structure and guidance with positive learning outcomes need to be in place within the schemes of work. Pupils should be able to assimilate their knowledge and be able to put into practice their own ideas from a variety of starting points in a confident and coherent way. This may take place in a range of ways e.g. through the observation and recording of information in sketchbooks, through digital photography or discussion. The child will also be involved in collaborative work where there is a dynamic exchange of ideas between peers, and where mutual agreement must be sought.
The child will be introduced to a variety of different media: painting and drawing; printmaking, fabric and thread work; the construction of installations and projects based on concepts; three-dimensional studies using ceramics and mixed media. The use of ICT is incorporated alongside all of the above mentioned disciplines. Pupils will be encouraged to develop self-reliance and to discriminate in the use of materials used in projects. The teaching of art can assist in the development of fine motor skills, coordination and practical dexterity.
Children should enjoy and feel part of the creative process, wherever they are in terms of personal ability, and should not feel in any way limited. Pupils also need time outside lessons to pursue, take satisfaction in, and enjoy their creative endeavours. The availability of the Art Room at breaks, lunch-times and after school play a vital part in this.
The aim of the department is for pupils to achieve high standards where observational skills and the use of materials are explored to express aspects of the individual experiences of the child; the personal and imaginative worlds they inhabit. We can expect the child to take ownership for their work and to behave in a responsible, positive and supportive manner towards the work of others; whilst not only enabling them to discuss and evaluate their own work, but the work and progress of their peers too.
Constant references will be made to the work of artists and craftspeople where the pupils can come to appreciate different styles, working methods and professional practice. During a pupil’s time at school, visits will take place to galleries, museums and places of notable merit as a part of their learning and development. It is to be hoped that through these opportunities and experiences, the child may become more fully engaged in the subject and form a life-long appreciation of the arts.
Above all, the child should be absorbed by the subject, engrossed in what they are doing, and proud of their achievements at whatever ability level they have attained.
AIMS
- To develop the visual literacy and vocabulary of the pupils.
- To help pupils to observe and record the world around them in order to know and understand its complexities.
- To be able to evaluate and discuss their own work critically.
- To value critically the work of artists, craftspeople and designers.
- To enable children to take pleasure in producing good work through the development of their skills.
- To enhance the pupils’ appreciation and enjoyment of the natural and man-made world through working in art.
- To make representations and artefacts which engage children in practical thinking and problem - solving.
- To allow children to give form to their personal response to the world around them, to talk about what they see, express opinions and discuss ideas.
- To develop and to enhance the children’s self-esteem through the creative process.
Current parent"The teaching staff are thoroughly committed to bringing out the best in each and every child."
