Curriculum vision:

The art curriculum at SJBC is designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression among students. The primary intent is to provide a structured yet flexible environment where students can explore various artistic mediums, techniques, and historical contexts. Diversity and inclusion are central principles behind our curriculum design. Students study artists from a wide range of backgrounds, styles, and time periods, helping them appreciate the richness of global artistic traditions and see themselves reflected in the work they explore. This fosters a sense of respect and empathy for others.  Art promotes interdisciplinary connections, linking art to subjects such as history, science, and literature, thereby enriching students’ overall educational experience. It also aims to prepare students for potential career paths in the creative industries by introducing them to contemporary practices and professional standards. Ultimately, the intent of Art at SJBC is to inspire a lifelong appreciation for the arts, empowering students to become innovative thinkers and engaged citizens in a visually-driven world. Through this exploration, they learn to value creativity as an essential component of personal and societal growth. 

How is Art taught at SJBC?

The curriculum is carefully sequenced to build skills progressively.  From exploring basic visual elements in early years to analysing meaning, context, and technique in later stages. This thoughtful progression ensures students gain both practical ability and deeper understanding.

Students have a 50-minute lesson in years 7 and 8 where they will complete a do-now task followed by a focused activity, working on a skill or technique.  In years 9,10,11,12 and 13, students begin to work more independently and will have a double lesson, allowing them time to explore media and technique more in depth.

What homework will students do in Art?

Students will work on tasks that strengthen and solidify skills learnt in lessons.  Students explore the work of artists and work on building up their fundamental skills.  Homework is in a 2 weeks timetable for KS3.  Tasks cover the assessment objectives used in KS4 to prepare students for GCSE and beyond.

How are wider skills – e.g. literacy, oracy, numeracy and independent research – delivered through Art?

Literacy

• Art Criticism and Analysis: Students read about different art movements, artists, and techniques, then write reflections, or critiques, building vocabulary and comprehension.
• Artist Statements: Writing about their own work helps students practice clear, expressive writing.
• Interpreting Visual Texts: Analysing symbolism, themes, or narratives in artworks develops critical reading skills.
• Research Projects: Reading books or articles about art history or contemporary art to gather information.

Oracy

• Class Discussions and Presentations: Talking about their artwork, discussing interpretations, or debating artistic choices encourages clear verbal communication.
• Peer Critiques: Giving and receiving constructive feedback promotes active listening and respectful speaking.
• Storytelling Through Art: Explaining the story or message behind their pieces helps organise thoughts verbally.

Numeracy

• Proportion and Scale: Understanding and applying ratios when drawing figures or objects accurately.
• Geometry: Using shapes, symmetry, and spatial reasoning in design and composition.
• Mixing Paints: Calculating ratios or percentages for colour mixing.