Art at Swiss Gardens
At Swiss Gardens Primary School, we recognise that Art and Design should engage, inspire and challenge pupils whilst equipping them with the knowledge, confidence and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art. Through learning and comparing the work of famous artists, and the techniques they use, our pupils will know how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and the world in which they live.
We value Art and Design as an important part of the children’s entitlement to a broad and balanced curriculum, teaching it throughout the year alongside Design Technology. Our learning is linked to our topics as well as cross curricular themes in History and Science.
Art and Design provides the children with opportunities to explore elements of colour, texture, form and pattern, and develop and build on skills and techniques as they progress throughout the school. Children are given the opportunity to express their own interests and ideas either through individual pieces or large collaborative displays. Children are proud of their work and this pride is reflected in their sketchbooks and the creative pieces on classroom and corridor displays.
Please see below our new knowledge and skills progressions to see how incremental knowledge is built over time.
Collaborative piece in Year 1 on Seasons
Year 6 study of Henry Moore
Year 2 Animals in their environments – mixed media
(Link to Science)
Year 3 sequence of learning about self-portraits using different media
curriculum map
The Early Years Curriculm links to Art and Design Technology
In Early Years children are encouraged to explore with colour, shape and form, make choices in materials and test out their ideas. They are encouraged to use lots of different media. From chalk on the playground, to painting and drawing from observation.
Art & DT – They safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques, experimenting with colour, design, texture, form and function.
Children use what they have learnt about media and materials in original ways, thinking about uses and purposes. They represent their own ideas, thoughts and feelings through design and technology and art. (Expressive Arts & Design)
They handle equipment and tools effectively. (Physical)