Welcome to the Oak Bank Art Department
Our art curriculum is designed to be broad, ambitious, and aligned with the national curriculum, ensuring all students access a challenging academic program that fosters achievement and progress.
Curriculum Pathway: Starting from Key Stage 2 and progressing through Key Stage 3, students move on to ASDAN and GCSE options in Key Stage 4. Our curriculum supports natural creativity and encourages exploration across various topics and mediums.
Knowledge Rich: We provide core and expansive knowledge, catering to students with varying levels of prior art experience. Students engage in mark making, and explore mediums such as paint, pencil, clay, and collage. They study the work of artists and art from diverse cultures.
Intelligently Planned: Sequenced to build long-term knowledge, our curriculum promotes a cross-curricular approach. Students build on previous skills, develop their creativity, and gain confidence in their artistic expression.
Culturally Rich: Our inclusive approach exposes students to global experiences, discussing historical periods and social issues through art. We explore topics like race, sexuality, disability, and mental health through the lives and works of artists.
Reading Focused: Promoting a love for reading, our designated area offers a range of texts from comics to artist biographies. Reading supports literacy skills and enhances students’ understanding across the curriculum.
Context-Specific: We accommodate diverse student needs, fostering creativity with a focus on exploration rather than strict guidelines. Small class sizes allow personalised learning, supporting students at various levels and qualifications.
Values-Driven: Aligned with Oak Bank’s values, our art department promotes respect, kindness, and excellence. Students are assessed against achievement grids, encouraging self-development and independence in their artistic journey.
Underpinned by Rules: Respect, responsibility, and safety are fundamental. We create a safe environment where students feel secure to express opinions and explore creatively. Students gain valuable social and practical skills for their future endeavours.
This concise version highlights the key elements of Oak Bank’s art curriculum, emphasising creativity, inclusivity, and academic progression.
