At SMPS, our Art & Design curriculum aims to engage, inspire and challenge pupils by building upon the children's technical skills, personal expression and artistic knowledge.

We believe that there are three core elements to Art and Design:

• Develop creativity and expression: To enable children to explore their ideas and experiences through a range of practical skills, materials and media to produce original and creative work.
• Build artistic skills and confidence: To develop children’s confidence and proficiency in a range of art techniques, including drawing, painting and sculpture among other artistic techniques. To encourage them to analyse and evaluate their own work and that of others by using a range of appropriate artistic vocabulary to express their ideas, opinions and reflections.
• Develop knowledge and appreciation of art: To enable children to explore and appreciate a diverse range of artists and artistic styles by developing their understanding of the historical and cultural influences that have shaped art across different periods and societies.

Underpinning the curriculum are the expectations: 

• Provide a wide range of opportunities for children to create both individual and collaborative pieces of artwork, developing their creativity, independence and ability to share ideas.
• Expose children to a diverse range of historical and contemporary artists, styles and movements to broaden their understanding and appreciation of art.
• Enrich children’s learning through experiences that connect them with the wider art world, including gallery visits, workshops and opportunities to work with artists in residence.
• Provide opportunities for pupils to share and celebrate their artwork through exhibitions, galleries, displays and the presentation of their sketchbooks, fostering pride and confidence in their artistic achievements.
• Prioritise artistic literacy by developing children’s subject-specific vocabulary and their ability to discuss, analyse and evaluate artwork thoughtfully and confidently.
• Embed opportunities for children to explore art from different cultures, communities and periods, developing their understanding of global perspectives, cultural diversity and the role of art in society.

‘A high-quality art and design education should engage, inspire and challenge pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design.’ (DfE National Curriculum Art Programme of Study). 

South Milford Primary School aims to equip children with the skills, knowledge and confidence to become creative, independent artists who enjoy exploring their ideas, experimenting with different techniques and taking creative risks. Through exposure to a diverse range of artists, styles and artworks, children will develop their own artistic interests and feel inspired to express themselves creatively. They will develop an understanding of how art and design have evolved over time and how they reflect, influence and shape society, culture and history.

Our Art and Design curriculum provides children with a wide range of opportunities to explore and experiment with different artistic media and techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture and craft. Through practical experiences, children develop their creative skills, confidence and ability to express their ideas through art. They also develop their knowledge and appreciation of a diverse range of artists, craft makers, sculptors, architects and designers, exploring their work, techniques and contributions to the wider world of art and design.

‘Creativity is now as important in education as literacy.’

Sir Ken Robinson

South Milford Primary School’s commitment to providing a rich and inclusive creative arts curriculum is reflected in our achievement of the Silver Artsmark Award. Accredited by Arts Council England, this recognition celebrates our dedication to valuing creativity, enriching pupils’ learning experiences and providing meaningful opportunities for children to engage with and develop their artistic skills.

Through the teaching of specific artists and pieces of art, children learn how art and design is reflected in and has shaped our society and its history.

Our Art and Design curriculum provides children with opportunities to explore different mediums of creative art including drawing, painting, sculpture and craft. As such, children not only learn about great artists, but they also learn about the work of craft makers, sculptors, architects and designers.

‘Creativity is now as important in education as literacy.’

Sir Ken Robinson

SMPS commitment to all aspects of the creative arts is demonstrated through the award of the Silver Artsmark. We are proud that we have achieved this creative quality standard for schools which is accredited by the Arts Council England.