Art

At Hyde Heath Infant School, we believe that every child is an artist and as such should be given the opportunity, through the Arts, to develop their creativity, imagination, self-expression and confidence. We aim to inspire and challenge pupils and provide them with the knowledge and a range of artistic skills to experiment and create their own works of art, craft and design using a variety of creative tools and materials and with the ability to express their own interests and individuality.   We encourage our children to explore ideas, appreciate the arts and develop the ability to think critically about works of art.   Through developing a knowledge and understanding of artists, crafts people and designers they can increase their awareness and appreciation of the roles and purposes of art and design in different times and how it has shaped our history and culture.

The teaching and implementation of the Art and Design at Hyde Heath is based on the National Curriculum. Children in Key Stage One are taught Art as a discreet subject but use the skills learnt in cross curricular ways too. Sketch books are used for developing fine art techniques and work is produced in 2 and 3D across a range of topics – printing, sculpture, collage, landscapes, textiles and human form. The work of famous local, national and international artists is also explored to widen the children’s knowledge and appreciation. Whole school Art projects and Take One Picture focussed study gives the children opportunities for collaborative working and exploring styles and techniques of a range of artists. Visits and Visitors give children opportunities to learn about Art in the wider world.

The Hyde Heath Art Skills Progression Matrix is used to assess the impact of the Art and Design teaching and to see where further revisiting of skills and experiences need to be given. Ongoing assessments take place though the year – which can be pieces of completed work, checks of vocabulary and pupil feedback, this information is used to inform future lessons.