Art and design

What we are aiming for

At Bassenthwaite, we believe that creativity is a vital part of children’s development and that Art and Design plays a crucial role in our curriculum. We want children to develop the confidence to express themselves, explore ideas and communicate meaning through visual and creative forms.

Art and Design encourages children to be curious, imaginative and reflective. Pupils explore the work of artists, designers and makers from a range of cultures, time periods and traditions. They learn to observe carefully, think critically and make connections between their own work and the techniques, styles and ideas of others.

We want children to understand that art is a personal and expressive subject. There is no single “right way” to create. Children are encouraged to take creative risks, experiment with materials and techniques, and reflect thoughtfully on their work and the work of others with kindness and respect.

How learning happens

Mixed-age classes

Art and Design is taught in mixed-age classes where a supportive and inclusive environment helps children feel confident to experiment and share ideas. Units are planned on a rolling cycle to ensure full National Curriculum coverage, revisit key skills and support progression across year groups.

Teachers use progression documents and ongoing assessment to build on prior learning, model new techniques and ensure all children are supported and challenged appropriately.

How we get there

Art and Design is taught through carefully planned units that explore artists, techniques, materials and creative processes. Each unit begins with a focus or stimulus, such as an artist, artwork, theme or technique, which guides learning and discussion.

Children learn to work like artists and designers by:

  • exploring and responding to the work of others
  • developing skills in drawing, painting, collage, printing and sculpture
  • experimenting with materials, tools and techniques
  • planning, creating and refining their own artwork
  • reflecting on and evaluating creative outcomes

Sketchbooks are used to present final pieces of artwork, allowing children to showcase their ideas and outcomes. Children are encouraged to take pride in their sketchbooks and see them as a record of their creative achievements.

Knowledge, vocabulary and artistic thinking

Our Art and Design curriculum develops both:

  • practical knowledge, including techniques, materials, tools and processes
  • creative thinking, including experimentation, decision-making, reflection and evaluation

Key vocabulary is introduced and revisited so children can talk confidently about their work and the work of others. Adults model techniques clearly, and children are given time to practise, experiment and refine their skills.

What children gain

Through our Art and Design curriculum, children:

  • develop creativity, imagination and self-expression
  • build confidence in experimenting and taking creative risks
  • learn to reflect thoughtfully on their own work and the work of others
  • develop fine motor skills and control using a range of materials
  • grow in empathy and respect when exploring art from different cultures and backgrounds

Art and Design supports children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development by encouraging reflection, emotional expression and appreciation of diversity.

By the time they leave Bassenthwaite, pupils see art as meaningful, enjoyable and personal, and are confident in using creativity as a way to express ideas and feelings.

How we know

We know children are making progress in Art and Design through their increasing confidence, skill development and ability to talk about their work using appropriate vocabulary.

Teachers assess learning through:

  • sketchbooks and finished pieces
  • observation of practical skills and creative choices
  • discussion and questioning
  • reflection and evaluation of processes and outcomes

How you can help at home

Parents and carers play an important role in nurturing creativity and confidence in Art and Design. Small, regular opportunities at home can make a big difference.

Encourage creativity

Give your child time and space to draw, paint, colour or make things at home. Encourage them to choose their own ideas and materials and remind them that there is no “right” or “wrong” way to create.

Talk about art

Look at artwork together in books, online, or when visiting galleries, museums or local exhibitions. Talk about what you notice and how the artwork makes you feel. Asking questions such as “What do you like about this?” or “How do you think it was made?” helps children develop confidence in sharing ideas.

Use everyday materials

Creative opportunities do not need to be expensive. Junk modelling, collage using magazines, printing with household objects or drawing with pencils and crayons all help children explore texture, shape, pattern and colour.

Practise simple skills

Encourage careful cutting, folding, colouring, shading and mark-making. These activities help develop fine motor skills and control, which support confidence in art and across the curriculum.

Celebrate effort and creativity

Display artwork at home and talk positively about it. Encourage your child to explain what they did and what they are proud of. Valuing effort, experimentation and perseverance helps children develop resilience and independence.

Draw from real life

Encourage children to draw everyday objects, plants, pets or views from a window. Looking closely and trying again helps children develop observation skills and confidence over time.

Helpful websites for families

Parents and carers may find the following websites useful for supporting creativity and art skills at home:

These resources encourage creativity, curiosity and confidence rather than “perfect” outcomes.