The 'story of art' is inherently dynamic and ever evolving. Numerous artists are still active today, influencing the world we view and interact with.
"The Prophet (PBUH) said,“Indeed, Allah is beautiful and loves beauty.”"
Muslim Hadith [91a]
The key to creating fine art is having skills, imagination, and creativity. Our students will produce art in response to the themes of the project and various types of motivational beginnings. Even though all of our students will all start from the same place, they'll each have their own distinct ideas and concepts to explore.
In 2024, 100% of students achieved between grades 9-5 in Art & Design. You can see our school performance figures for 2024 GCSE exams here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The GCSE exam for Art & Design consists of two components. Both are internally assessed and externally moderated.
Component 1: Personal portfolio 60%
Component 2: Externally set assignment 40%
AO1 = 25% - Artist research
AO2 = 25% - Experimentation of materials and development
AO3 = 25% - Recording (drawing, painting, sculpture, collage etc)
AO4 = 25% - Outcome (final Piece)
