Mrs Emily Underhill – Subject Leader of Visual Arts
Mrs Rachel Hooper – Teacher
Ms C Renn – Teacher
The exploration of a variety media and techniques is paramount to students’ experience of Art and the way they physically engage with the visual world. Pupils are taught to use artists, craftspeople, designers and a variety of resources to develop themes and ideas for their work. We aim to craft an environment where our students grow in confidence to make their own creative decisions.
Key Stage 3
In Years 7 and 8 pupils will experiment with a range of two and three dimensional work, using traditional techniques and media such as drawing, painting and printmaking, in conjunction with construction using wire, card and the development of textured surfaces. Themes and topics are constantly evolving in response to our artistic influences and current affairs.
GCSE Art & Design (Fine Art; AQA) – Years 9, 10 & 11
We choose to deliver the Art & Design specification at GCSE as this allows us to lead students’ exploration using a diverse range of media and skills. Progress from Key Stage 3 is developed through more in depth evaluation and refinement of techniques as well as having access to a greater range of materials. More challenging and concept-based topics are approached, and personalisation of outcomes becomes increasingly important. Throughout the year students’ work is increasingly driven by their own interests and skill set; by the time of the Externally Set Assignment (exam unit) pupils should be in a position to work independently to complete their chosen project.
GCSE Art & Design (Photography; AQA)
A variety of project themes are explored to gradually introduce technical camera use, compositional devices and concept-based topics; these are approached in relation to photographers and artists, to support the development of projects. Increasing confidence with the workings of a digital camera is an essential skill which pupils must learn before moving on to further editing work. The analysis of others’ work to generate and support project ideas is also highly important, especially when the personalisation of outcomes starts to be introduced. Throughout the year students’ work becomes gradually more driven by their own interests and skill set; by the time of the Externally Set Assignment (exam unit), pupils should be in a position to work independently to complete their chosen project.
We are lucky to be able to use the Enrichment programme to offer projects which not only enhance the students’ technical abilities, but also allows for more experimental, individual exploration of ideas. Being able to potentially teach a mixture of students from all year groups in one class generates a real community feel, with friendships being built across the school.
We use this platform as an opportunity to reward exemplary work and to allow parents to see and comment on the art produced. To access this gallery please follow: ‘themacclesfieldacademyart’