Curriculum Intent

Our Art curriculum at Key Stage 1 is designed to nurture confidence, curiosity, and creativity, ensuring every child feels happy, healthy, and safe to express themselves through art. We aim to provide rich opportunities for children to explore their imagination, experiment with materials, and communicate ideas visually. Through engaging, hands-on experiences, pupils begin to understand that art is a powerful form of expression and a way to share feelings, thoughts, and perspectives. We want every child to see themselves as an artist — capable, valued, and inspired. Our curriculum builds foundational knowledge of artistic techniques and vocabulary while encouraging personal growth, resilience, and pride in creative achievements.

Curriculum Implementation

Art is taught through a carefully planned, progressive curriculum that develops key skills and knowledge across KS1. Children explore drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and printing, using a range of tools and materials to build confidence in experimentation. Lessons are practical and inclusive, with an emphasis on enjoyment, exploration, and personal expression. Teachers model artistic processes and introduce new techniques and vocabulary in a way that supports curiosity and creativity. Sketchbooks are used from Reception to record ideas, practise skills, and reflect on progress. Children learn about a diverse range of artists, craft makers, and designers from different cultures and time periods, developing respect and appreciation for others’ creativity. Each term children take part in a WOW day where they undertake a range of creative activities and are taught new skills. Every three years the school holds a Creative Arts Week producing a focused week of creative activity and learning.

Curriculum Impact

By the end of KS1, pupils will have developed confidence in using a variety of materials and techniques, showing creativity and curiosity in their artistic choices. They will be able to discuss their work and that of others using appropriate vocabulary and demonstrate an understanding of how art can express ideas, emotions, and cultural identity. Children’s progress is evidenced and celebrated through sketchbooks, displays in classrooms and around school, pupil voice and photographic evidence on Tapestry showcasing their growing skill, imagination, and pride. The impact of the Art curriculum is reflected in pupils who are motivated, confident, and joyful in their creative learning. Summative and formative assessments are recorded on Tapestry and data is analysed and acted upon by subject leaders and staff to ensure progress and development for all.

 Art and Design National Curriculum