Art is not always about a final piece but the
search itself.

Art is not always about a final piece but the search itself.

The journey is as important as the outcome. We believe to develop artistic growth students need intellectual and practical balance; individually, in groups and as a whole class. Presented with and guided through problem-solving situations that challenge their perceptions; students are given opportunities to create and discover. Art education is a perfect forum for addressing learning styles today. The benefits for our students include better independent learning management, problem-solving skills, critical-thinking skills, and a cooperative learning environment.

The Department

Mrs. Clare Medcroft
Mrs. Hilary Dyer-Price.

Click here to see some samples of student’s Artwork

Key Stage 3

At KS3 the course consists of themes to cover 3D design & ceramics, drawing & painting and printmaking & mixed media. It is our aim in giving students the skills to understand the visual world and the ability to express themselves in a wide variety of different materials with confidence and enthusiasm. Drawing forms a large part of the course; because only by drawing from observation can students develop a visual language through which to communicate their ideas. We encourage students to make appropriate use of ICT and to develop and be influenced through the study of designers/artists work taken from a wide range of cultures.

Regular homework is set which may involve researching visual and written information on artists and their work. Students may be asked to complete drawing and sketching activities, experiment with different materials and evaluate their work. Students may be asked to evaluate their own and others’ work. Work is displayed in a variety of venues around the school to celebrate the success of the student. Regular assessment and monitoring by staff ensures progression through the Key Stage, linked to the National Curriculum Levels for Art.

Activities Week

All Key stage 3 students have the opportunity to work with a practicing artist as part of Activities Week in the Summer term.

Key Stage 4

GCSE art students follow the new AQA Specification-

Full Course
Portfolio of work
Controlled assessment
60% of the total marks
Marked out of 80

The portfolio should be selected from work undertaken during the course of study and must include more than one project. For the Full Course, it is recommended that the total portfolio submission will comprise approximately 45 hours of work.

A response to all assessment objectives is required in the portfolio as a whole.
Work presented is marked by the centre and moderated by AQA.

Externally-set task

External assessment
40% of the total marks
Marked out of 80
10 hours of sustained focused study

Students respond to their chosen starting point.
Question papers can be issued to students from 1 January in the year of the exam.
Unlimited preparation time and 10 hours of supervised time.

A response to all assessment objectives is required.
Work presented is marked by the centre and moderated by AQA.

In Year 10, students will be expected to produce two units of work, engaging with, analysing and reflecting upon the artwork of artists, craftsmen and designers. They will use a range of processes, techniques and media throughout their sketchbooks to develop ideas, record observations and research artists. Students will participate in a mock exam in Year 10. Pupils will be expected to produce sketchbook work and preparatory work ready for the exam.

In Year 11 each student will continue with their individual project, based on their level of skill and capability to prepare their final portfolio before beginning their externally set task in January of Year 11. Homework will be given throughout the course, which will include research, sketchbook work and preparation work. This will always be discussed with pupils on an individual basis. Mark - See photos and exemplar bits sent through on email.

Key Stage 5

All Students follow the AQA specification which is made up of coursework and Exam work components each of which contribute to 50% of the A/S qualification.

Unit 1 – Coursework Portfolio

50% of AS, 25% of A Level
No time limit
80 marks
Portfolio of work set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA
Available in June only

Unit 2 – AS Externally Set Assignment

50% of AS, 25% of A Level
Supervised time 5 hours
80 marks
Work produced will be marked by the centre and moderated by AQA
Available in June only
A2 Examinations

Unit 3 – Personal Investigation

25% of A Level
No time limit
80 marks
Personal investigation supported by written element of 1000-3000 words, set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA
Available in June only

Unit 4 – A2 Externally Set Assignment

25% of A Level
Supervised time 15 hours
80 marks
Work produced will be marked by the centre and moderated by AQA
Available in June only

In Year 12 Students complete unit 1 a practical portfolio component and complete unit 2 a five hour examination both of which results in studying the work of artists, craftsmen and designers to inform their intentions. A sketchbook is kept to record ideas, research and experimentation with a range of processes, materials and techniques leading up to the final outcome.

In year 13 students complete the A2 year which results in a full A Level qualification. Students complete two units of work throughout the year both of which contribute to 50% of their final grade. Unit 3 is a coursework component which is practically based supported by a 3000 word illustrated essay. Unit 4 is the exam component which is a 15 hour long unaided activity where students refer to and respond to a series of artists to inform their ideas in their sketchbook work which is essential in indicating their ideas and findings.

All students are taught as a group but undertake individual projects within that group which reflect their strengths and interests. Each student is assessed on an individual basis and is offered guidance and support with their work. This dialogue is recorded in a logbook within the department so progress can be monitored.

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