At Leigh Academy Academy, we value Art and Design as an important part of our pupils’ entitlement to a broad and balanced curriculum. Art and Design provides pupils with an opportunity to express their individual interests, thoughts and ideas which are communicated in a variety of ways. We believe that a high-quality, differentiated art and design education will engage, inspire and challenge our pupils, equipping them with the ability to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design. Pupils may begin to understand how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation.
The basis for our learning in Art and Design is the National Curriculum.
The links can be found here:
- Art and design programmes of study: key stages 1 and 2
- Art and design programmes of study: key stage 3
Pupils will gain experience by experimenting with colour, line, shape, texture, pattern and form. We aim to ensure that all pupils use a variety of materials and processes for either sensory exploration or to develop skills in a wide range of disciplines. Throughout each lesson we encourage and extend communication skills in a way that suits all pupils, expressing in visual terms what they see, feel and think – on their own and working with others. We will focus on their own and others’ achievements and celebrate all outcomes.
The teaching and implementation of the Art and Design Curriculum at Milestone Academy is based on the National Curriculum and linked to our inquiries to ensure a well-structured approach to this creative subject.
- Art is interleaved within units of inquiry, allowing pupils authentic opportunities to explore key concepts, skills and knowledge of art and design.
- There are weekly Art lessons following a scheme of work that will introduce pupils to a range of different themes and artists from a range of cultures and backgrounds.
- Pupils will be encouraged to communicate, in their preferred way, what they see or how particular work makes them feel.
- Students will be supported with opportunities to express their likes and dislikes through exposure of varied artists and craftspeople’s work. Pupils will create work inspired by these artists in an accessible and inclusive way, using processes that introduce pupils to different sensory experiences.
- Pupils will be given autonomy at every opportunity so they have an opportunity to be creative and use their imagination. A wide range of materials and activities will engage and interest pupils, leading to an excitement in creation.
The impact of our Art and Design curriculum extends beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impression on the holistic development of our students. Pupils emerge with a sense of pride and accomplishment, valuing their artistic achievements. The experience instils independence and confidence, empowering students to express their artistic opinions with assurance. Knowledge of various artists and the materials used in their creations broadens students’ artistic understanding.
Importantly, the impact of Art transcends into student well-being. Pupils celebrate their achievements, finding recognition for their artistic endeavours. This celebration fosters increased self-confidence, positively influencing their overall self-perception. The skills honed in our Art curriculum become versatile tools that students can apply across various areas of their academic journey, contributing to their personal growth and future well-being. The positive impact on pupil well-being is a testament to the transformative power of expressive arts and design in a special needs school setting.
- Pupils are exposed, in school, to a variety of artists, media, and works of art
- Art is displayed throughout the school
- Where appropriate, pupils will visit at least one art institution, which may include a national museum
- Students explore art and design through online learning activities
- Local artists, including volunteer and professional artists, visit the Academy
- Participation in LAT-wide art contests including the annual Christmas Card competition and the visual art competition.
Incorporating career links within an art curriculum is pivotal for nurturing pupils’ independence and future employability. Encouraging pupils to communicate their perceptions and emotional responses to artworks enhances their self-expression, a crucial skill in any workplace. Exposure to diverse artists and craftspeople allows students to articulate their likes and dislikes, fostering critical thinking and appreciation for various perspectives.
Students will engage in creating work inspired by these artists, employing processes that provide inclusive and accessible sensory experiences. This engagement not only cultivates artistic skills but also instils confidence and adaptability—qualities valued in diverse career paths.
By granting pupils autonomy in their creative endeavours, we nurture imagination and innovation, essential attributes in today’s job market. A broad range of materials and activities will stimulate interest and excitement, reinforcing a lifelong love of learning and creativity, ultimately preparing pupils for independent living and professional success.