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Art and Design

Art, Design and Technology Curriculum

 

Art – Practical Knowledge

At Pennine Way practical knowledge includes all the things that pupils need to know in order to produce art. It includes:

  • Formal elements (colour, form, line, pattern, shape, texture, tone).
  • Control of Materials (drawing, painting, printmaking, 3D sculpture, photography and digital art)

Lessons have each been sequenced so that pupils are explicitly taught aspects in small steps, allowing pupils to gradually build their understanding and mastery of practical knowledge over the 3 key stages.

Theoretical Knowledge (Substantive)

Pupils are introduced to a broad and diverse range of artists, designers, and cultural art forms, both historical and contemporary. Through studies of artists such as Monet, Paul Klee, Stephen Wiltshire, Andy Goldsworthy, Sonia Boyce, Carolina Jariwala, and Banksy, pupils connect their own creative work to the wider artistic world. Lessons explore the purpose, context, and meaning behind artworks, enriching pupils’ understanding of artistic styles and cultural influences. Links with local artists (Barbara Maxwell, Sarah Walkely and Percy Kelly) and the community further broaden pupils’ experiences, showing how creativity can be applied and shared beyond the classroom.
   
 

Disciplinary Knowledge

Throughout their time at Pennine Way, pupils are encouraged to think and work like artists.

They are encouraged to question What is art? Pupils learn about the diversity of artistic outcomes, the purpose and the meaning of art, and how it has been part of much of human history.

They learn to observe, analyse, and evaluate both their own and others’ work, making informed decisions about materials, composition, and style. Reflection and critique are embedded into lessons, helping pupils understand artistic processes, solve problems creatively, and develop critical thinking. By integrating knowledge, skills, and vocabulary progressively, pupils gain a coherent understanding of art and design, supporting long-term memory, sustained progress, and lifelong creative skills that prepare them for further artistic study and real-world applications.

At Pennine Way we have chosen to focus on teaching the children the skills which underpin the area of learning such as; painting, collage, modelling, drawing, and printing. These studies are repeated, however the skills are progressive. The skills taught throughout the year will be both practical and creative and lead into an Artist focus and a piece of Art based on this in depth study.

In the Foundation Unit we will be looking at the skills and knowledge outlined in Development Matters in the section of Expressive Arts and Design. In terms of our SEND provision we pride ourselves on providing an inclusive curriculum. Children with SEND needs will be able to access Art lessons alongside their peers but will be given extra support or resources where needed.

The children’s skill development will follow a clear progression between each year group building on their previous learning, revisiting previously learnt skills and addressing any misconceptions. This will help the children to have a deeper understanding of the knowledge and skills as well as improving their long term memory.

 

Design and Technology Curriculum 

At Pennine Way Primary School, Design and Technology is an inspiring, practical subject where creativity meets problem-solving. Our pupils are encouraged to design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. Through imaginative and hands-on learning, our children become resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens.

Our Design and Technology curriculum aims to equip children with the skills, knowledge and confidence to design and make products with a clear purpose. We want our pupils to think like designers, engineers and chefs — developing their curiosity, imagination and independence through practical activities that link learning to the real world.

From early years through to Year 6, children learn how to design, make and evaluate products while building a secure understanding of structures, mechanisms, electrical systems, textiles, and cooking and nutrition. Every child, regardless of ability or background, has the opportunity to succeed and take pride in their creations.

 

Art and Design Curriculum Impact

Skills underpin our entire Art curriculum at Pennine Way Primary School, throughout their school life the children will be taught Art skills that they can apply through secondary school and beyond in their journey to becoming artists. They will have a secure knowledge of a range of artistic styles and techniques as well as knowledge about a range of artists, designers and architects. Long term memory is a key focus for our children, providing them with a well structured Art curriculum should allow them the opportunity to improve their long term memory. The children will be able to talk in detail about their learning and the skills they have developed throughout the year, using high quality vocabulary. The children will be provided with life-long skills and knowledge which could be used in the future to pursue different artistic avenues.