At Bearnes Primary School, our vibrant art curriculum is built on a progressive foundation, nurturing creative exploration from the earliest stages of EYFS through to the mastery of skills in KS2. Our intent is to inspire and challenge every child, equipping them with the knowledge and techniques to express their ideas and record their experiences confidently. In EYFS, children begin their artistic journey by exploring a wide variety of media and materials, building imaginative concepts and developing early techniques. This hands-on, playful approach lays the groundwork for KS1, where pupils learn to use a wider range of materials creatively, including drawing, painting, and sculpture, focusing on developing a wide range of techniques in using colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form, and space. Moving into KS2, this exploration deepens as children create and utilise sketchbooks to record observations, experiment with ideas, and revisit and refine their techniques with a greater level of control. A key focus is on mastering art and design techniques with a variety of materials, such as pencil, charcoal, paint, and clay, and studying the work of great artists, architects, and designers throughout history. We provide opportunities for exploration, encouraging a fun and engaging approach where "mistakes" are valued as part of the creative process. Evaluation and appreciation are embedded throughout, with time dedicated for pupils to share their successes, critique their own work, and analyse the work of others using the language of art. To enrich their learning, children participate in local community art projects and benefit from annual workshops with visiting artists, broadening their skills and connecting their creativity to the wider world. Our curriculum ensures that every child at Bearnes graduates with a deep appreciation for the arts and the confidence to express themselves vibrantly.
Â