Art

Art and Design at Knowsley Village Primary School

At Knowsley Village Primary School, Art and Design are taught through Curriculum Maestro, which ensures a comprehensive and cohesive progression of skills across year groups. The curriculum is mapped out to provide a broad and balanced experience, covering a variety of artistic styles, techniques, and cultural influences. Lessons are structured to build on prior knowledge, allowing pupils to refine their skills as they move through the school.

Pupils engage in hands-on, practical experiences that encourage experimentation and exploration. They learn about famous artists, cultural art forms, and modern designers, using this knowledge to inspire their creations. Cross-curricular links are made wherever possible, enriching the learning experience and allowing pupils to see the relevance of Art and Design in the wider world.

Early Years

In Early Years, Art and Design focus on exploration, play, and sensory experiences. Children are encouraged to express themselves freely through mark-making, painting, and crafting. They experiment with a variety of materials and tools, developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Activities are often linked to stories, themes, or seasonal events, allowing children to make connections between their creations and the world around them. The emphasis is on imagination, creativity, and enjoyment, fostering a positive attitude towards artistic expression from an early age.

Key Stage 1 (KS1)

In KS1, pupils begin to develop their artistic skills more purposefully. They explore line, shape, colour, and texture through drawing, painting, and simple sculpture. Children learn about different artists and cultural art forms, using these as inspiration to create their own work. They are encouraged to talk about their creations, explaining their choices and reflecting on their outcomes. Displays of their artwork celebrate individuality and effort, building confidence and a sense of achievement. Collaborative projects help them learn to share ideas and work together.

Key Stage 2 (KS2)

In KS2, pupils build on their skills with more complex techniques and materials. They learn about composition, perspective, and proportion, enhancing their drawing and painting abilities. Pupils explore a wider range of media, including digital art, collage, and 3D modelling. They study influential artists, designers, and cultural movements, developing critical thinking by analysing and evaluating different styles and techniques. KS2 pupils are encouraged to be more independent in their creative decisions, planning and reflecting on their work with increasing sophistication. Group projects continue to promote collaboration, while exhibitions and displays showcase their achievements to the school community.