Art

Art at Race Leys

Reception

In Reception, Art is covered through the Early Learning Goals called ‘Exploring and Using Materials and Media’ and ‘Being Imaginative’.

In Reception, we are curious to explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques. We love to experiment with colour, design, texture and shape and we enjoy finding our own unique way of representing our ideas.

Art work in reception:

As part of Reception’s ‘Celebrations’ topic, pupils designed and made their own 3D rocket fireworks. Pupils needed to consider shape, space and colour. In school every opportunity is taken to exploit writing opportunities. As part of their learning the pupils were also encouraged to explore vocabulary and the sounds that fireworks make. They were able to use their phonic skills to write the words.

As part of our ‘Under the Sea’ topic, reception classes visited the ‘Sea Life Centre’. Following their trip, the children were inspired to draw and collage a range of sea creatures. They learnt to use lines and curves to sketch what they saw and they experimented with pre-cut materials of various colours and textures.

Key Stage One

In Key Stage One, Art is covered through the Art and Design National Curriculum:

Pupils should produce creative work, exploring their ideas and recording their experiences.
Pupils should become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craft and design techniques.
They should evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft and design.
They should know about great artists, craft makers and designers, and understand the historical and cultural development of their art forms.

Art work in Key Stage 1:

In Key Stage 1 pupils are encouraged to consider the painting styles and techniques used by other artists of all backgrounds. Pupils recently worked in the style of Vincent Van Gogh to produce their own versions of ‘The Starry Night’ painting.

In Key Stage 1, art work is also taught through topics. For example, as part of our history topic ‘The Great Fire of London’, pupils made Tudor house clay relief tiles where they learnt to use techniques such as rolling, cutting, and moulding.

Afterschool Activities

Art club is provided by school staff and runs throughout the year. After- school club encourages pupils from all year groups to work together to learn new skills or rehearse techniques through a range of media. Pupils are encouraged to consider the styles and techniques used by other artists, for example, we worked in the style of the artist Andy Goldsworthy whose art is derived from, or related to nature.