Art and Design

At St John Evangelist Primary we value Art and Design as an important part of our children’s entitlement to a broad and enriched curriculum. As an Islington school we are surrounded by thriving cultural and creative industries, which we take advantage of by using Islington’s 11 by 11 scheme to attend galleries, explore artists and take part in creative workshops.

Children have weekly Art lessons (on a rota with Design and Technology) which advance their techniques and creativity whilst developing an appreciation for influential artists and designers. We want to ensure that children have opportunities to develop and improve their skills in many contexts across the curriculum and to build their confidence in themselves and their abilities.
Children become confident and proficient in a variety of techniques including drawing, painting, sculpting, as well as other selected craft skills such as collage, printing, weaving and patterns. Lessons offer opportunities for children to develop their emotional expression through Art, further enhancing their personal, social and emotional development.

The Art overview has been carefully mapped to fully adhere to the National Curriculum expectations. We use the Plan Bee scheme to support our planning, which is linked, where appropriate, to the cross-curricular ‘Topic’ curriculum. Art is also explored through other subjects such as English, Religious Education and Science. Phase groups plan foundation subjects collaboratively to ensure each year group follows the progression of skills ladder and builds systematically on prior learning.
This progression ensures that pupils not only meet the standards of the National Curriculum but also develop artistic skills in a consistent and purposeful way. Teachers are supported through professional development, including workshops led by a skilled Art teacher, to ensure they feel confident in delivering high-quality lessons. Staff also liaise regularly with the Subject Leader for guidance in planning and identifying the most effective resources.

The Subject Leader attends the Islington Art Lead programme to gain new ideas and expertise to share with colleagues. Lessons promote the development of artistic techniques, control, creativity, experimentation and an increasing awareness of different kinds of art, craft and design. Enrichment opportunities extend beyond the classroom, including Art Clubs, the Multi-Skills Art Gallery, and the annual ‘Writing through Art’ project for Year 4, where pupils visit Kenwood House to create writing inspired by works of art.

Children are highly engaged in their lessons and take pride in their work, as evidenced through high-quality outcomes in their books. Reflection and discussion are central to the assessment process, encouraging pupils to evaluate their own work and that of others. Displays throughout the school reflect the diversity of techniques explored and highlight a love of Art and learning.

St John Evangelist School takes advantage of Islington’s 11 by 11 scheme as part of our planned enrichment overview. Enrichment activities support children to develop ‘skills for life’ and gives our pupils access to a wealth of experiences in our local area.