Aim

• Provide the opportunity to be creative and innovative
• To learn about and make appropriate choices with the use of materials, techniques and processes (including new technologies) 
• Research the work of a variety of different artists
• To develop students' enjoyment of artistic activities
• Build on students’ strengths, interests and experiences

Topics covered

There are two different rotations in Year 9, pathways that run in a similar way to Year 8 and a core rotation which gives students a short taster session for six/seven weeks of what art would be like at GCSE.

Each group, whether core or pathway, will look at a range of art, artists and types of work and learn how to make more independent decisions and think critically in preparation for GCSEs. Students might, for example, make sculptural forms in the style of Giacometti or look at textiles or graphic designers and work with typography or fabrics to make outcomes.

Teaching groups

The groups are of mixed ability, and we have a maximum of 24 students. Each group is taught art for two periods per week in pathways and one hour for core that rotates between all creative subject areas.

Assessment:

The mark scheme runs from entry level grades followed by 1–9. This relates to the marking scheme for GCSE and ensures all students are making linear progress. The expected levels in Year 9 can be between EL1–Level 4. We use a “passport” system to monitor progress of key accountable outcomes for students along pathways. We use observational drawing to start with, followed by a grade and feedback on the project for that term, reflected in the data. Students always get a great deal in the form of verbal feedback from staff and peers each lesson.

How to support at home

• Ensure homework, when set, is completed to the best of the student’s ability and is handed in on time
• Provide the necessary materials (2B pencil and coloured pencils)

Click here for information on the curriculum for the AQA exam board.