At Archbishop Cranmer CE Primary Academy, we believe that Art and Design nurtures creativity, imagination and self-expression, enabling children to explore ideas, develop confidence and appreciate the rich diversity of the world around them.

Through our vision of 'life in all its fullness' (John 10:10), we encourage pupils to become curious, resilient and reflective artists who are inspired by the creativity of others whilst developing their own unique artistic voice.

Our Art and Design curriculum is carefully designed to develop:

• creativity, imagination and self-expression
• confidence in drawing, painting, sculpture and mixed media
• knowledge and appreciation of artists, designers and craft makers from a range of cultures and time periods
• observational skills and the ability to experiment, refine and evaluate ideas
• resilience, independence and pride in the creative process

Through practical, hands-on experiences, pupils explore a wide range of artistic techniques, materials and processes. Children develop both practical knowledge (how to use materials and techniques effectively) and disciplinary knowledge (how artists generate ideas, communicate meaning and evaluate creative work), enabling them to create purposeful artwork with increasing confidence and skill.

Art learning is enriched through:

• sketchbook exploration and creative experimentation
• artist studies spanning classic, contemporary and female artists
• opportunities to work with a wide range of media and techniques
• visits, exhibitions and cultural experiences, including visits to galleries
• meaningful links across the wider curriculum

Across school, pupils develop their skills through the three key strands of Drawing and Sketchbooks, Surface and Colour, and Working in 3D. They explore drawing, painting, printmaking, textiles, collage, sculpture, photography and mixed media whilst studying the work of influential artists including Wassily Kandinsky, Henri Matisse, Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Barbara Hepworth, Katsushika Hokusai and Paul Nash. These experiences help children understand how art reflects history, culture and personal identity whilst encouraging them to develop their own creative style. 

At Archbishop Cranmer, we encourage children to take creative risks, embrace mistakes as part of the learning process and reflect thoughtfully on their own work and the work of others. Through our Take Care learning behaviours, pupils become confident, independent artists who understand that creativity is developed through curiosity, perseverance and imagination.

Please explore the documents below to find out more about Art and Design at Archbishop Cranmer.

Key Documents:

• Art and Design at Archbishop Cranmer
• Art and Design On A Page