Art and design embody some of the highest forms of human creativity. At Castle Donington College, we believe that a high quality art and design education should engage, inspire and challenge pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment invent and create their own works of art, craft and design. We aim for all pupils to know how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation

The national curriculum for art and design aims to ensure that all pupils:

• produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording their experiences
• become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craft and design techniques
• evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft and design
• know about great artists, craft makers and designers, and understand the historical and cultural development of their art forms

At Castle Donington College, the Art curriculum ensures that all pupils are taught to develop their creativity of ideas and increase proficiency in their execution. They should develop a critical understanding of artists, architects and designers, expressing reasoned judgements that can inform their own work.

Pupils are taught to use a range of techniques to record their observations in sketchbooks, journals and other media. They are taught to explore their ideas, to use a range of techniques and media, including painting and to increase their proficiency in the handling of different materials. Pupils analyse and evaluate their own work, and that of others, in order to strengthen the visual impact or application of their pieces. In addition, pupils are taught about the history of art, craft, design and architecture, including periods, styles and major movements and artists from ancient times up to the present day.

How is the Art Curriculum delivered?

At KS3, pupils receive lessons of Art, delivered to mixed ability tutor groups as part of the Design departments rotations. Pupils arrive in year 7 with a wide range of Art experiences, skills and knowledge. The key stage 3 curriculum is carefully designed to ensure pupils are given the best opportunity to develop their skills and creativity in this exciting subject.

How do we monitor quality of the Art curriculum?

The Head of Design is responsible for monitoring the quality of the curriculum and quality of delivery in all disciplines. The Assistant Principal line manages the Department and oversees the development and quality of the curriculum with the Head of Department and the Principal. Art and Design follows the College Quality Assurance Programme and is reviewed annually through Departmental Review.

Each subject area has clear end points for assessment, and these are shared with students at the start of each rotation and printed in each workbook for reference. The Department uses the whole school approach of support, secure and greater depth.

Reviewed September 2023