Click here for the Art and Design Curriculum Overview

Click here for the Art and Design Skills Progression Overview

‘I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn’t say in any other way – things I had no words for.’

Georgia O’Keefe

At St Matthias, our art and design curriculum develops pupils’ creativity, confidence and ability to express themselves. We believe art provides a unique way for children to communicate ideas, explore emotions and engage with the world around them.

Learning is carefully structured so that pupils build their knowledge and skills over time. They explore a range of artists, styles and cultural influences, developing an understanding of how art reflects both historical and contemporary contexts. Pupils learn to observe closely, think critically and respond to the work of others.

Art plays an important role in enabling pupils to develop an artistic language through which they can express themselves with confidence. This is built through developing skills in observation and making, alongside creating a supportive environment where pupils feel confident to take risks, make mistakes and embrace challenges as part of the creative process.

Pupils develop their skills through drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking, using a wide range of materials and techniques. Learning begins with observing the work of artists, before moving into experimentation. Pupils then apply their skills to create personal and meaningful artwork, reflecting their own ideas and creativity.

A range of artists, designers and creative disciplines are explored, enabling pupils to understand art within its cultural and historical context. Through this, pupils develop an understanding of different styles and themes, and how artists communicate meaning through their work.

Sketchbooks play a central role in learning. They provide a space for pupils to explore, experiment and develop ideas, practise techniques and reflect on their work. Through regular evaluation, pupils develop their own artistic voice and take ownership of their creative journey.

Knowledge and skills are revisited and developed over time, enabling pupils to become more independent and thoughtful in their work.

Through this approach, pupils develop creativity, resilience and an appreciation of art across different cultures and periods, preparing them for further learning and creative expression.

As a result, pupils leave St Matthias as confident and reflective artists who can think creatively, express their ideas independently and appreciate the value of art across cultures and contexts.