The Art and Design course at KS3 focuses on the development of skills; from observation drawing, explorations into line and tone, to developing the questioning skills and independent learning that will help students to be successful in GCSE Art and in other subjects across the school curriculum. KS3 Students receive one hour of Art a week, and one hour of Graphics on a termly rotation with Food Technology. Homework is set regularly. Pupils should spend a minimum of one hour on Art & Graphics homework and should develop their own sketchbook.
Year 7 Art:
Rotation 1: Colour Mixing. Artist study: Paul Klee
Rotation 2: Pattern. Artist study: Gustav Klimt
Year 8 Art:
Rotation 1: Lettering and scale. Artist study: Jasper Johns
Rotation 2: Cultural Study: Aboriginal Art
Year 9 Art:
Term 1: “All about me: Portraiture”. Artist study: Pupil choice
Term 2: “All about me: my space, my belongings”. Artist Studies: Roy Lichtenstein, Michael Craig Martin
Term 3: Pupil Self-directed Project, and preparation for GCSE
How will the KS3 curriculum prepare my child for life in modern Britain?
Art encourages higher order thought processes that are different than many traditional academics. In art there is no one correct answer, and the pupil is therefore encouraged to analyse the problem given to them and come up with their own unique solution. This type of creative problem solving is a valuable skill. Once pupils have learned this skill they can use it to write English papers, design science experiments or even solve problems in their own lives, outside of school. Modern Britain is fascinated with the new and different. Therefore, more than ever, employers are looking for innovative thinkers. Pupils that able to solve problems creatively have an edge in the job market.
For many pupils, especially those who learn in non-traditional ways, art classes offer them a greater chance to excel in school. Art appeals to all senses; in art pupils see demonstrations of the process they are to complete, read or do research about the art and then complete the process themselves. By incorporating all of these types of learning, pupils who put in the time will find success. Art is always hands-on – nothing solidifies knowledge more than by actively completing a task. Although reading and writing are important in any art class, the focus is on creating artwork.
Art also enhances a pupil’s perceptions, with artists tending to be more observant, conscious people. An artist designed the chair you are sitting in, the water bottle you drink out of, and the building you live in. In art, pupils learn to examine the objects and images around them, including advertisements, videos, magazines and artwork. They will develop a greater understanding of their visual culture and how they are affected by it.
Art allows pupils to express themselves and it can boost self esteem. As pupils gain independence and figure out who they are, being able to express themselves through art provides a wonderful outlet. Being able to look at a finished piece of artwork and say “I made that,” gives anyone a great feeling of pride and accomplishment and pupils leave with a product that he or she created and can be proud of.
Lastly, pupils should take art classes because they are fun
Information about extra-curricular sessions and extended learning opportunities available to my child.
Year 9 & 10 “Session 6”
Gifted and Talented Art pupils and those with a strong grasp of independent thought and show skills ready to begin GCSE will be invited to join “Session 6”. This is a class that runs for two hours after school, and gives selected pupils the opportunity to study Art and Design GCSE. Successful pupils will be entered for the exam and will gain an extra GCSE.
The department runs regular trips to support the beginning of coursework projects and build a strong understanding of the world of Art. Trips include The Botanical Gardens in Birmingham, The Tate Galleries in London, and a 4 day excursion to Paris.
Does my child need any specialist equipment for this subject?
A lot of equipment is provided by the school but to thrive in Art it is important to have specialist materials of your own in order to complete work outside the classroom. A good set of coloured pencils, a 2B pencil, a fine-liner and a set of paints will stand you in good stead. Folders and ring bound sketchbooks are available to buy in school. Coursework sketchbooks are provided.