Art & Design
Our Art & Design curriculum equips our students with the skills to think creatively, analytically and reflectively. Students develop problem solving skills alongside manipulative skills, independence and resilience.
Curriculum Intent
At Poole High School, our Art & Design curriculum places creativity at the heart of learning. We encourage students to explore ideas, take creative risks, solve problems and develop confidence through making and reflecting on their work. Through a practical, hands-on approach, students learn to work with a wide range of materials, media and techniques, including drawing, clay, painting, printmaking, mixed media, sculpture and photography.
Students develop their artistic skills by creating, discussing and evaluating artwork, while gaining an understanding of how art reflects and shapes the world around us.
Through the study of artists, cultures and contemporary issues, they are encouraged to think critically, explore themes of social responsibility, and develop an appreciation of diverse perspectives.
At Poole High School, we value experimentation, imagination and personal expression, aiming to inspire a lifelong interest in art, craft and design and to equip students with the skills to succeed both creatively and academically.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, we aim to provide a series of stimulating projects which provide our students with opportunities to explore new materials and techniques, whilst developing knowledge and understanding.
In year 7, they build the foundation skills in the formal elements of line, tone, colour, shape, pattern, texture and form. There is an emphasis on developing a range of drawing techniques that underpin visual communication.
In Year 8, students increase their 3D skills through the design and construction of a ceramic outcome that is inspired by organic forms. They also learn about how designers take their influences from a range of cultural sources which leads them to design and create packaging for a product.
Year 9 students complete a project in which they research a range of historical and contemporary styles before producing a personal response based on their local landscape.
Key Stage 4
Studying the GCSE Art and Design course at Poole High School will provide you with an opportunity to develop your 2D skills such as drawing, painting and printmaking as well as 3D skills including sculpture and ceramics. You will also learn how to develop your ICT skills to create and manipulate digital imagery using computer software.
The course will allow you to learn how to develop and refine your creative ideas through the use of first-hand observations, experiments with media and processes and by learning about the work of other artists and craftspeople.
The GCSE course in art & design is assessed on a portfolio of coursework completed during Years 10 and 11 and a final externally set assignment in Year 11. There is no written exam for this subject.
Portfolio of work - 60% of total marks
A portfolio of coursework will be selected from work undertaken during the course and will show the development of at least two themes from observational studies and sketches through to concluding pieces of work. There is no limit to the number of pieces of work the portfolio may contain.
Externally set assignment - 40% of total marks
Assignment papers are issued in the spring term of Year 11 and students select one question to explore. Students will have a period of preparation time to prepare preliminary studies. A ten-hour period of supervised time will be allocated in which to produce their concluding piece of work.
Key Stage 5
Choosing Art and Design will give you the opportunity to further your interest and skills in this subject. You will have the opportunity to explore your ideas in a more personal way than at GCSE level and to spend more time in developing practical techniques. Learn more about our A-Level Art & Design courses
