Art
“Art is not just a subject; it’s a language that helps children express ideas, emotions, and creativity. In school, it opens doors to imagination, problem-solving, and a deeper understanding of the world.”
Art & Design Curriculum at Aylesham Primary School
At Aylesham Primary School, our Art & Design curriculum is ambitious, knowledge-rich, and inspiring, ensuring every child is ready for the challenges of secondary education and beyond. We believe that art is for everyone and plays a vital role in helping pupils understand their place in the world as creative, confident individuals.
Our Approach
- Ambitious and Progressive: Learning builds on prior knowledge through a carefully structured curriculum.
- Broadening Horizons: We celebrate our local community while introducing pupils to global artists, designers, and craftspeople.
- Cultural Capital: Enrichment events and opportunities help pupils develop confidence and creativity.
- Empowering Creativity: Pupils and teachers are encouraged to make confident creative decisions.
- School Values in Action: Resilience, teamwork, creativity, and flying high underpin all learning.
- Exploring Purpose: Pupils learn why art matters—connecting past, present, and future through creative expression.
- British Values: Students critique art respectfully, express opinions, and value diverse perspectives.
Developing Knowledge and Skills
Our curriculum develops substantive knowledge in:
- Artists, Designers and Craftspeople
- Art Styles
- Art Periods
Pupils also master procedural and disciplinary knowledge through units such as:
- Drawing and Sketchbooks
- Print, Colour and Collage
- Working in Three Dimensions
- Paint, Surface, Texture
- Collaboration and Community
Three key questions run through all learning:
- What is art?
- What do artists do?
- What inspires artists?
Our Chosen Approach
We use AccessArt because it:
- Exceeds National Curriculum expectations.
- Is knowledge-rich and progressive.
- Inspires a love for Art & Design.
- Provides CPD and resources for teachers.
- Recognises art as a unique subject offering a different kind of learning.
- Believes everyone has the right to be creative.
- Introduces a wide variety of artists from across the world.
- Balances declarative and experiential knowledge, building confidence and creativity.
Art Curriculum Overview