Art & Design at St Joseph the Worker
Our Art & Design curriculum is designed to nurture children’s creativity, imagination and confidence as young artists. Through a well‑structured and progressive programme, we equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and techniques needed to explore, experiment and express themselves visually. Our teaching follows the National Curriculum and is enriched by the AccessArt scheme, ensuring high‑quality, inspiring and inclusive art lessons that celebrate creativity and individuality.
In the Early Years Foundation Stage, art is taught through the area of ‘Expressive Arts and Design’, one of the seven areas of learning in the EYFS Framework. Children explore a wide range of materials, tools and techniques through purposeful play, creative exploration and guided experiences. These early opportunities help them develop confidence, curiosity and a willingness to experiment.
Exploring Materials and Media: Children paint, draw, sculpt, collage and build using a variety of materials, tools and textures.
Developing Fine Motor Skills: Activities such as mark‑making, cutting, shaping and joining help children develop control and coordination.
Colour and Pattern: Children explore colour mixing, patterns and simple artistic effects.
Creative Expression: Pupils use art to express ideas, feelings and stories inspired by their experiences and imagination.
Introduction to Artists: Through stories and images, children begin to encounter artists and artworks from different times and cultures.
Guided Art Sessions: In addition to continuous provision, children take part in structured art activities that introduce early techniques and artistic vocabulary.
Dignity of the Human Person: Children learn that their ideas and creations are valued and unique.
Community and Participation: Pupils enjoy creating together, sharing materials and celebrating each other’s artwork.
These early experiences provide a foundation for key artistic concepts such as line, colour, shape, texture and expression—preparing children to access the Art & Design curriculum in Key Stage 1 and beyond.
In Key Stage 1, children begin to develop a more structured understanding of art. Using the AccessArt scheme, pupils explore:
Drawing: Using a range of tools to create lines, shapes and textures.
Painting: Mixing colours, applying paint in different ways and exploring simple techniques.
Sculpture: Working with clay, natural materials and simple construction techniques.
Collage and Textiles: Experimenting with layering, cutting, joining and combining materials.
Exploring Artists: Learning about artists, craft makers and designers from different cultures and time periods.
Artistic Vocabulary: Beginning to describe their work and the work of others using simple art language.
Solidarity: Children learn that artists around the world express ideas in different ways, but creativity is a shared human gift.
The Common Good: Pupils work collaboratively on group projects, learning to share ideas and respect others’ contributions.
Care for Creation: Children use natural materials and explore themes linked to the beauty of God’s world.
In Key Stage 2, pupils develop greater control, independence and artistic understanding. Through the AccessArt scheme, they explore:
Drawing Skills: Using shading, perspective, proportion and a wider range of tools and techniques.
Painting and Colour Theory: Mixing tints, tones and shades, exploring brushwork and developing more complex compositions.
Sculpture and 3D Work: Using clay, wire, modroc and mixed media to create detailed and expressive forms.
Printmaking: Exploring relief printing, monoprinting and repeated patterns.
Textiles and Collage: Developing more advanced techniques such as stitching, layering and combining materials.
Studying Artists: Learning about significant artists, architects and designers, and analysing how art reflects culture, history and identity.
Evaluating and Reflecting: Using artistic vocabulary to discuss, critique and refine their work.
Rights and Responsibilities: Pupils learn to use materials responsibly and respect the creative work of others.
Option for the Poor and Vulnerable: Children explore how art can give a voice to those who are unheard and highlight issues of justice.
Stewardship: Pupils consider how artists use natural and recycled materials and how creativity can support sustainability.
Global Solidarity: Through studying art from around the world, pupils appreciate cultural diversity and shared human creativity.
Knowledge‑Rich and Skills‑Based: Our curriculum ensures children develop both technical skills and creative thinking, learning to work like artists—observing, experimenting, reflecting and refining.
Cross‑Curricular Links: Art is often linked with history, geography, science, RE and literacy to enrich understanding and deepen learning.
Global Citizenship and Catholic Social Teaching:Art lessons promote empathy, respect and appreciation of diversity, helping pupils understand their role in contributing to a creative, compassionate world.
Engaging and Inclusive: Lessons are enriched with high‑quality resources from AccessArt, hands‑on exploration, artist studies, gallery experiences and opportunities for all pupils to succeed.
Through Art & Design at St Joseph the Worker, we nurture children who are imaginative, confident and expressive. Art is not just about making pictures—it is about creativity, identity, culture and celebrating the gifts God has given us. Through engaging lessons and Catholic Social Teaching, we equip our pupils with the skills and values they need to make a positive difference. Whether drawing from observation, sculpting with clay or exploring the work of great artists, our pupils grow as thoughtful, creative and reflective individuals.