Art
At Carleton House Preparatory School, we view Art as a vital part of our curriculum, providing pupils with the opportunity to express their creativity, develop new skills, and explore a wide range of artistic techniques. Our Art curriculum is closely aligned with the UK National Curriculum for Key Stage 1 and 2, ensuring a progressive and well-rounded approach to artistic development.
Key Features of Our Art Curriculum:
Exploration of Different Media and Techniques:
From painting and drawing to sculpture and collage, pupils are introduced to a broad spectrum of artistic media. We encourage children to experiment with materials and techniques, helping them develop confidence in their creative abilities.
Creative Expression and Personal Development:
Our Art curriculum encourages pupils to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences through their artwork. This process helps to build self-esteem, confidence, and resilience, as pupils learn to take risks, experiment with new ideas, and reflect on their own work and that of others.
Art Appreciation and Critical Thinking:
Pupils are taught to engage critically with art, developing their ability to analyse and discuss both their own work and the work of famous artists. They learn to appreciate a wide range of artistic styles and cultural influences, fostering respect for diversity and an understanding of art's role in shaping society.
Collaborative Projects and Exhibitions:
Art at Carleton House is not just an individual pursuit; pupils have opportunities to work collaboratively on large-scale projects, creating communal artworks that celebrate teamwork and shared creativity. We also showcase pupils' work through exhibitions and displays, helping them take pride in their achievements and share their artistic journey with the wider school community.
Connection to the Wider Curriculum:
Art at Carleton House is integrated across subjects, enriching learning in areas such as history, geography, and English. This cross-curricular approach helps children make connections between art and the world around them, deepening their understanding and engagement with both subjects.
Progression Through Key Stages:
Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2):
In the early years, our focus is on building fundamental skills in drawing, painting, and making simple models. Pupils learn to use a variety of tools and materials, exploring colour, texture, line, shape, and form. They are introduced to famous artists and their works, fostering an early appreciation of art history and different artistic styles.
Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6):
As pupils progress, they delve deeper into more complex techniques such as printmaking, textiles, and digital media. They are encouraged to refine their skills in observation and composition, using sketchbooks to record their ideas and develop their own creative responses. Pupils also study key movements in art history, gaining inspiration from a wide range of cultural and historical contexts.
At Carleton House, we aim to inspire every pupil to explore their creativity, develop a love for art, and appreciate its value as a means of personal expression and cultural understanding. Through a well-structured and engaging curriculum, we equip our pupils with the skills and confidence to express themselves artistically and critically, preparing them for the next stage of their artistic journey.
