ART AT SHAMBLEHURST
At Shamblehurst Primary School, we believe that art has the power to inspire, challenge and ignite a lifelong sense of awe and wonder.
Our Art and Design curriculum is carefully designed to fulfil the aims of the National Curriculum by enabling children to produce creative work, explore and develop ideas, become proficient in a range of artistic techniques and evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft and design.
We have carefully selected a diverse range of artists, designers and artistic movements to inspire our pupils. From the contemporary installations of Yayoi Kusama and the vibrant landscapes of David Hockney to the thought-provoking works of Banksy and the imaginative space art of Chesley Bonestell, pupils encounter creativity from different cultures, time periods and backgrounds. By studying artists and designers from around the world, children learn that creativity transcends gender, nationality, language and circumstance.
Our curriculum celebrates diversity, inclusion and cultural understanding, supporting our wider commitment to British Values and SMSC development. Through studying artwork from different societies, traditions and historical periods, children develop respect for others, appreciation of diversity and curiosity about the world around them. They are encouraged to explore big ideas, express opinions respectfully and reflect on how art can shape, challenge and influence society.
We want every child to see themselves as an artist.
Through experimentation, risk-taking and self-expression, children develop confidence, resilience and creativity. Whether children are exploring Egyptian symbolism, designing Viking clay sculptures, creating tie-dye textiles or producing contemporary illustrations inspired by mythology, they are encouraged to develop their own artistic voice whilst appreciating the work of others.
When you visit our school, you will see vibrant displays celebrating artistic achievement, cultural diversity and individual creativity. Sketchbooks showcase children's artistic journeys, demonstrating experimentation, reflection and personal growth. Art plays a significant role in celebrating local heritage, cultural events and wider curriculum learning, helping children make meaningful connections between art and the world around them.
Alongside our curriculum provision, pupils enjoy dedicated Arts Weeks, transition day projects and enrichment opportunities that further broaden their cultural capital and foster a lasting appreciation of the arts.
Art is taught as a progressive curriculum that builds knowledge, skills and understanding from Year 1 through to Year 6.
Learning is carefully sequenced to ensure children develop increasing confidence in drawing, painting, printing, sculpture, textiles, mixed media and digital techniques.
Each unit is centred around a significant artist, designer, movement or artistic tradition. Children begin by exploring and analysing examples of artwork, discussing artistic techniques, themes and influences. They develop their understanding of artistic vocabulary and learn to evaluate creative works thoughtfully and respectfully.
Throughout their time at Shamblehurst, children:
Explore a wide range of media, materials and techniques.
Develop observational and imaginative drawing skills.
Experiment with colour, texture, pattern, tone, line and shape.
Create sketchbooks that record observations, ideas, reflections and evaluations.
Study artists from different cultures, historical periods and artistic movements.
Learn about the relationship between art, history, culture, science and the wider curriculum.
Refine and improve their work through reflection, peer critique and teacher feedback.
Showcase their creativity through displays, exhibitions and celebrations.
The curriculum provides purposeful opportunities for cross-curricular learning. For example:
Year 1 explore camouflage, linking art with science.
Year 3 investigate Stone Age art through historical enquiry.
Year 4 study Egyptian art alongside ancient civilisations.
Year 5 use space art to complement scientific understanding of space.
Year 6 explore mythology, symbolism and social commentary through contemporary artists.
SMSC development is woven throughout the curriculum:
Children experience awe and wonder through encounters with remarkable artworks, cultures and creative processes. They are encouraged to reflect on beauty, meaning, imagination and human expression.
Pupils discuss artistic messages and consider issues explored through art, such as fairness, environmental responsibility and social justice, particularly when studying artists such as Banksy.
Children collaborate, share ideas, provide constructive feedback and celebrate one another's achievements. They develop confidence in communicating artistic viewpoints and respecting different interpretations.
Children explore artistic traditions from a wide range of countries, faiths and historical periods, broadening their understanding of the rich diversity of human creativity.
British Values are promoted naturally throughout art lessons through:
Mutual respect for differing ideas and artistic interpretations.
Tolerance of different cultures, beliefs and traditions.
Individual liberty through creative expression and personal choice.
Democracy through discussion, collaboration and sharing viewpoints.
Understanding how art can influence and reflect society over time.
The impact of our Art and Design curriculum can be seen in the confidence, creativity and enthusiasm displayed by our pupils.
Children leave Shamblehurst with a rich knowledge of artists, designers and artistic traditions from across the world, alongside the technical skills needed to create artwork independently and thoughtfully.
By the time pupils leave our school, they are able to:
Draw, paint, sculpt and create with increasing proficiency.
Use artistic vocabulary accurately and confidently.
Analyse and discuss artwork from a range of cultures and time periods.
Reflect on and evaluate their own work and the work of others.
Demonstrate creativity, resilience and independence.
Show appreciation and respect for different artistic traditions and perspectives.
Make meaningful connections between art, culture, history and society.
The strongest evidence of impact is seen in our sketchbooks, displays, exhibitions and conversations with pupils. Children talk enthusiastically about artists they have studied, explain the techniques they have used and demonstrate pride in their artistic achievements.
Most importantly, our curriculum develops curious, imaginative and culturally aware children who are inspired by the world around them, appreciate the richness of human creativity and understand that art has the power to communicate, connect and transform lives. Through creativity, self-expression and exploration, we nurture children who leave Shamblehurst with a lasting sense of wonder and a genuine love of art.
Shamblehurst Art Gallery
