Art

Intent

Art at Riverside is inclusive of all children. By studying art all children can develop visual thinking and creativity which allows our children to make a personal response to the world and to communicate that response to others. Children's creativity in art is developed through increasing knowledge and understanding of artists and techniques, as well as investigating and making their own art work, developing skills using a range of media. Finally, children will develop their interest and curiosity about art through a series of lessons offering skills progression, knowledge progression and the opportunity to ask questions and demonstrate their skills in a variety of ways.

Implementation

The teaching and learning of Art at Riverside is based on the National Curriculum and linked to topics to ensure a well-structured approach to this creative subject. We begin with basic techniques and gradually introduce more advanced concepts in drawing, painting, sculpture, and other mediums throughout the year groups. Through practical activities, children explore their creativity while developing their skills. Teachers provide support, guiding children to express their ideas confidently and refine their work. The school shows the value placed on the work by displaying it as much as possible. Art is also used to support emotional well-being, with activities like "Talking and Drawing" promoting mental health and positive behaviour. Links with the Trust provide access to specialist secondary teachers and staff training, ensuring our curriculum remains dynamic and supportive.

EYFS

Pupils explore and use a variety of media and materials through a combination of child initiated and adult directed activities. They have opportunities to learn to:

Explore the textures, movement, feel and look of different media and materials

Respond to a range of media and materials, develop their understanding of them in order to manipulate and create different effects

Use different media and materials to express their own ideas

Explore colour and use for a particular purpose

Develop skills to use simple tools and techniques competently and appropriately

Select appropriate media and techniques and adapt their work where necessary

Key Stage 1

Pupils are taught:

To use a range of materials creatively to design and make products.

To use drawing, painting and sculpture to develop and share their ideas, experiences and imagination.

To develop a wide range of art techniques in using colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form and space.

About the work of a range of artists, craft makers and designers, describing the differences and similarities between different practices and disciplines, and making links to their own work.

Key Stage 2

Pupils are taught:

To develop their techniques, including their control and use of media and materials.

To be creative and experiment; building an increasing awareness of different kinds of arts and crafts.

To improve their mastery of techniques, including drawing, painting and sculpture, with a range of materials.

About great artists, architects and designers throughout history.

Impact

Children’s art journey is an enriching experience where they learn new skills and discover ways to express themselves. By the end of each Key Stage, children can use the skills and knowledge they've learned to create art confidently and competently. They reflect on their work and see how they’ve improved, using their sketchbooks to track their progress. This helps them become better at evaluating both their own and others art, noticing what works well and where improvements can be made. We want children to feel comfortable experimenting, taking risks, and enjoying the process of making art, not just focusing on the final piece. Above all, we want them to find joy in being creative and feel proud of their ability to express themselves.

Riverside Art Overview