Students in Key Stage 3 pursue a curriculum that develops their knowledge, abilities, and comprehension in a variety of artistic disciplines. These include drawing, colour development, 3D work, and examining previously created artwork from a variety of sources. This provides pupils with a solid foundation and will help prepare them for the Art & Design GCSE at Key Stage 4.
Year 7 topics
- Basic elements
- Colour and still life
- Typography
- Islamic art
- Surrealism
- Final personal project
For the final personal project, students are presented with different themes each year. They will then create a portfolio on the given theme. The mini project is intended to mimic the GCSE project and teach them independence in preparation for KS4.
Year 8 topics
- Perspective drawing project
- Architecture project
- Natural form project
- Islamic art
- Food glorious food
- Final personal project
For the final personal project, students are presented with different themes each year. They will then create a portfolio on the given theme. The mini project is intended to mimic the GCSE project and teach them independence in preparation for KS4.
Year 9 topics
- Calligraphy
- Pop Art project
- Cubism project
- Abstract project
- Final personal project
For the final personal project, students are presented with different themes each year. They will then create a portfolio on the given theme. The mini project is intended to mimic the GCSE project and teach them independence in preparation for KS4.
At Key Stage 4, all students begin from the same starting point, but each will develop their own unique ideas and concepts to explore. Conducting primary, first-hand research is essential for success in GCSE Art. The first step in responding to a project brief is to carry out a thorough investigation. This can take many forms — the most common being writing, drawing, and photography — though students are encouraged to speak with their teacher about alternative approaches.
Students must make meaningful connections to the work of other artists from different time periods, cultures, and regions. It is important to demonstrate an understanding of artists — both historical and contemporary — who share similar themes, techniques, or creative approaches. Visiting galleries, exhibitions, museums, or engaging with practicing artists can be an excellent source of inspiration.
Based on their research, students will begin to experiment with a variety of techniques, materials, and processes. While this may include traditional fine art practices such as painting and drawing, students will also be encouraged to explore mixed media, digital art, photography, printmaking, and 3D work.
The work they develop through this exploration will form the foundation for a final outcome that clearly expresses their chosen idea. Throughout the project, students will be assessed on their ability to develop, refine, and organise their ideas in response to the initial starting point or theme.
Overview of Assessment
The GCSE exam for Art & Design consists of two components. Both are internally assessed and externally moderated.
Component 1: Personal portfolio 60%
- From centre-set theme(s) in consultation with students.
- Students produce a portfolio of work demonstrating knowledge, understanding and skills, and comprising supporting studies and personal response(s).
- There are 72 marks available for this component.
Component 2: Externally set assignment 40%
- The culmination of the GCSE course.
- From an externally set theme (released on 2 January).
- Centres devise a period of preparatory study in which students create preparatory studies.
- Students have a 10-hour sustained focus period in which to produce personal response(s).
- There are 72 marks available for this component.
Assessment Objectives
AO1 = 25% - Artist research
AO2 = 25% - Experimentation of materials and development
AO3 = 25% - Recording (drawing, painting, sculpture, collage etc)
AO4 = 25% - Outcome (final Piece)
