In This Section
Art
Scroll to the bottom of the page for some examples of the students' work.
Working in well equipped, light and spacious studios -
KS3
Students use a variety of materials to explore and develop ideas, use sketchbooks to research artists and art history and for continuous evaluation of their own and others creative work.
Year 7
Students complete a series of observational drawings in a wide range of materials focussing on line, tone and texture; they then look at colour and specifically the Fauvist movement to complete their own painted composition which shows the correct use of light, tonal colour and perspective.
Year 8
Students work on a project which includes observational drawing, painting and mixed media work to further extend their knowledge and complete an abstract painting linked to the artist Robert Delaunay. To conclude the project students create their own large scale sculpture.
Year 9
Figurative sculpture and drawings undertaken, including a trip to the Fire and Iron gallery
GCSE
Students explore the planning of individual ideas, based on a theme such as Reflection and Distortion, combined with the development of sound observational drawing and painting skills. Sketchbooks record the development of ideas, experiments with media and an analysis of the creative process. Contextual work explores contemporary, multi-cultural and historical art, with visits to the Saatchi Gallery and Tate Britain. We aim to develop the individual strengths of students, who elect to work in fine-art, exploring painting, drawing and printmaking, textiles, mixed-media work or 3D/sculpture.
A Level
Art and Design students develop a high command of drawing technique with the expressive use of materials. Life drawing sessions are offered to students and give them a solid foundation in observational drawing and painting. Coursework is based on a theme, such as Collections, with sustained visual research underlying the students’ personal response in their chosen media. At A2 Level pupils select a focussed aspect of art to research in a critical, contextual study and a related area to explore in their individual practical work.
Extra-curricular
There are lunchtime Art Clubs for KS3 students and the Art Department has an open door policy for all GCSE and A Level Art students at lunchtimes, after school and in any free periods the students may have. An Annual Private View is held which celebrates the achievements of all Art students; our last exhibition was described by our A2 moderator as showing vibrant and exciting work.
Life drawing sessions are held for the Lower and Upper Sixth, which are an invaluable tool in enabling the students to develop their observational drawing and painting skills.
AQA Fine Art AS / A2 Level Syllabus