Art

The Curriculum at Wold Newton Primary School. The Intent, implementation and impact of our curriculum- Art and Design

Intent

At Wold Newton Foundation School, we want every child to see themselves as an artist. Our aim is to nurture creativity, curiosity and confidence by giving pupils the chance to explore a wide range of artistic techniques, materials and ideas. We want children to enjoy art, to express themselves freely and to understand how art can communicate thoughts, feelings and stories. Our curriculum introduces pupils to a diverse range of artists, craftspeople and designers, helping them appreciate art from different cultures, time periods and perspectives. We aim to ensure all pupils can access a rich and varied art curriculum that builds their skills over time and encourages them to take pride in their work.

Implementation

Art is taught through a carefully planned and sequenced curriculum that allows pupils to revisit and build on key skills as they move through the school. Children explore drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, printing and digital media, learning how to use tools and materials safely and effectively. Each unit is designed to develop specific skills while also giving pupils the freedom to experiment, make choices and develop their own artistic style.

We introduce pupils to a wide range of artists and artistic traditions, using these as inspiration for their own work. Sketchbooks are used throughout the school to record ideas, practise techniques and reflect on progress. Teachers use our progression documents to ensure learning builds year on year, with clear development in technical skill, creativity and understanding of artistic vocabulary.

Art is also woven into other subjects where meaningful links can be made, helping children see how creativity supports learning across the curriculum. We celebrate pupils’ artwork through displays, exhibitions and opportunities to share work with families and the wider community.

Impact

By the end of each key stage, pupils will know more, remember more and be able to do more in art. They will have developed a secure understanding of key artistic skills and techniques, and they will be able to apply these confidently in their own creative work. Children will show increasing independence, imagination and pride in their artwork, and they will be able to talk about their ideas using appropriate artistic vocabulary.

We measure impact through sketchbook work, finished pieces, pupil voice and observations of how children use and apply their skills over time. This helps us understand how effectively pupils are developing as young artists and how we can continue to strengthen their creative journey.