Meet the Art & Design Team
Mr D Grainger – Head of Department
Mr N McCarthy – Teacher of Art
Mrs H Cable – Head of Food Technology
Miss H Staple – Teacher of Art
Mrs N Hillier – Head of Art & Textiles
Technician
Mr N Owen – STEM Team Leader (Art & Science)
Curriculum Intent
Vision:
In an increasingly virtual world, the study of Art and Design Technology aims to give students the skills to interact with the physical world around them, confidently and successfully. We also aim to teach students truly useful creative digital skills that go beyond their everyday use of technology, and to set up students to take responsibility for their own success, and the resilience to cope with mistakes when they occur.
We study Art and Design Technology through a range of disciplines which allows us to teach students to interpret, observe and make sense of the world and its cultural histories. All students are regarded as creative individuals whose creativity is further stimulated by a diverse and exciting curriculum. Students are encouraged to think big and strive for success regardless of their ability. A stimulating passion for lifelong learning and diversity encourages students to experiment with media and learn new skills, whilst developing their aesthetic sensibilities. A sound knowledge of Art & Technology within the creative industries will therefore be achieved.
Principles
We aim to remove barriers to teaching and learning, to allow students to achieve their absolute best in our subjects. Insofar as is possible, all students are encouraged to take part in all activities in all subject areas. Students can become ‘expert’ in skills, and improve their own learning by instructing other students in the class.
We aim to deliver the National Curriculum in Art Design Technology. Students will learn by:
- Developing their understanding of cultural contexts through critical analysis and evaluation and comparing the work of artists, designers, themes, styles and movements.
- Refining a wide range of transferable skills such as working to a specific brief, measuring, drawing, painting, sewing, construction, cooking, building, sculpting and printmaking.
- Attending Art and Design exhibitions and museums outside of school and scrutinizing work in situ.
- Refining, evaluating and presenting their work to the highest standard.
- Expressing themselves within their work as part of a creative journey.
- Revising thinking skills and problem-solving skills creatively are something all modern employers are looking for and can take students far beyond the school learning environment.
Our Topics
Year 7
Formal Elements in Art and Design – Sweets and Cakes
Working in 3D -Masks and Pattern
Using Observation – Henri Rousseau
Year 8
Looking at Art Movements – Pop Art
Analysing Art Works – Surrealism
Looking at Other Cultures – Japanese Art
Year 9 - Gateway Year
Formal Elements – The Everyday
Skills Development
Influence and Analysis
Year 10
Project 1 – Exploring Materials
Project 2 – Independent Project
Year 11
Final Project – Independent Project continues
Unit 2 – ESQ Project from the Exam Board
Careers
Studying Art develops much more than just practical skills – it nurtures creativity, problem-solving, and the ability to communicate ideas visually and emotionally. These qualities are highly valued in a wide range of careers.
Direct Art-Related Careers
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Fine Artist – creating and selling original artwork in painting, sculpture, installation, or mixed media.
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Illustrator – producing images for books, magazines, advertising, fashion, or digital platforms.
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Graphic Designer – working in print and digital media to design logos, branding, marketing materials, and websites.
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Photographer – from fashion and advertising to documentary and events.
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Animator – producing visual effects and animations for film, TV, games, and advertising.
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Textile or Fashion Designer – designing patterns, clothing, and fabrics.
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Architectural or Interior Designer – applying creative and technical skills to spaces, buildings, and interiors.
Broader Creative Industries
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Film and TV Production – set design, props, make-up artistry, or costume design.
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Arts Administration – running galleries, museums, or cultural organisations.
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Art Therapist – using art as a tool to support wellbeing and mental health.
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Teaching and Education – inspiring the next generation of creative thinkers in schools, colleges, and workshops.
Transferable Skills
Art also equips students with skills that are valuable in any career, such as:
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Creative thinking and innovation.
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Independence and resilience.
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Communication and presentation skills.
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Attention to detail and project management.
Next Steps
Art can be studied further at college, university, or through apprenticeships. Many creative careers combine traditional skills with new technologies, so there are exciting opportunities ahead in digital design, gaming, media, and beyond.