ART & DESIGN

The Art and Design curriculum offers a comprehensive exploration of drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, and photography. As the foundation of all creative disciplines, drawing is central to our pedagogy. Students are challenged to develop and refine their observational skills through diverse, methodical approaches. We cultivate open-minded, critically reflective learners, encouraging students to develop a nuanced perspective on the world around them. Intellectual and creative curiosity is sustained through the rigorous study of historical and contemporary artists, photographers, and craftspeople, fostering a deep understanding of art’s relevance within a global context.

Key Curriculum Objectives

Our curriculum is designed to ensure that all students have the opportunity to:

• Cultivate Personal Expression: Articulate independent thoughts, feelings, and imagination through creative outcomes, while maintaining academic respect for the work and perspectives of their peers.
• Foster Innovation & Problem-Solving: Develop resilience and determination when exploring ideas, rooted in robust research.
• Promote Cultural Literacy: Respect and appreciate artists and designers spanning diverse eras, traditions, and cultures.
• Advance Analytical Skills: Express critical insights both verbally and in writing using subject-specific vocabulary, while building visual literacy through the formal elements and principles of design.
• Drive Personal Excellence: Aspire to high standards, take pride in craftsmanship, and experience measurable success in a practical discipline.
• Build Resilience & Autonomy: Take calculated creative risks, work independently, and confidently articulate and present their concepts.
• Explore Professional Pathways: Investigate the diverse career opportunities made accessible through the study of Art and Design.
• Support Holistic Wellbeing: Engage with artistic practice as a sustainable strategy for personal mindfulness and lifelong enrichment.

Key Stages & Course Structure

Year 9: Foundational Excellence

The primary focus in Year 9 is building practical confidence and nurturing innate creativity. Students engage with four distinct units designed to scaffold the skills acquired at middle school, providing a broad introduction to the department's facilities and high expectations.

• Unit 1: Tools & Everyday Items – Mixed Media
• Unit 2: Natural Forms – Ceramics & Ceramics Processes
• Unit 3: Iconic Portraits – Acrylic Painting
• Unit 4: Animals in Art – Advanced Colour Theory & Patternation

Note on Pedagogy: Drawing remains fundamental to each unit, serving as the vehicle for technical progression and self-confidence. Students routinely critique historical movements and contemporary practices to inform their own portfolios.

Years 10–11: GCSE Art & Design

Students have the opportunity to select the highly popular GCSE Art & Design (Fine Art) pathway. This rigorous course is ideally suited for creative individuals wishing to formalise their technical and creative skills.

Sixth Form: A-Level Art and Design

For advanced study, we offer an A-Level in Art and Design (Fine Art), preparing students for higher education and creative industries.

Enrichment & Departmental Contact

Extra-Curricular Provision

To support independent study, the art studios are open daily during lunchtimes. Students are encouraged to utilise these specialist facilities to develop their portfolios and pursue personal projects.

Year 10

Art & Design (Fine Art)   

Year 11

Year 12

Year 13

Departmental Leadership & Contact Details

• Mrs E. Hutchings | Joint-Head of Department | ehutchings@cedarsupper.co.uk
• Mrs K. Hanson | Joint-Head of Department | khanson@cedarsupper.co.uk