Art – Explore Curriculum

Intent

At The Rowans Primary, our Explore Art curriculum introduces pupils working at Year 1 and Year 2 level to a range of artistic materials, techniques and creative experiences. We aim to develop pupils’ confidence to experiment, make choices and express their ideas through art.

Pupils develop their understanding of colour, line, shape, pattern, texture and form through practical, hands-on activities. They are encouraged to look closely at the world around them, explore the work of artists and use their observations to inspire their own creations.

We recognise that pupils develop artistic skills at different rates. Our curriculum provides clear modelling, manageable steps and opportunities to revisit techniques, helping pupils develop confidence, independence and pride in their work.

Implementation

Art is taught through practical units that allow pupils to explore different themes, materials and techniques. Learning is broken into manageable steps, with adults modelling skills and providing opportunities for pupils to experiment before applying them to their own artwork.

Portraits and Collage

Pupils begin by exploring portraits and identifying the features of a face. They develop their observational drawing skills by looking carefully at facial features and practising how to represent them. Pupils then explore different ways of using materials, including cutting, tearing and arranging, before investigating how artists use a range of materials to create portraits. They apply these skills to produce their own self-portraits using collage techniques. The unit finishes with opportunities to talk about and evaluate their artwork.

Animal Patterns and Textures

Pupils explore patterns and textures found on different animals, developing their ability to observe and describe what they see. They practise drawing animal markings using lines, shapes and repeated patterns. Through rubbing, printing and mark-making, pupils investigate different ways to create texture and compare the effects of different techniques. They look at how artists represent animals before designing and creating their own mixed-media animal artwork. Pupils are encouraged to refine their work, present it and discuss their choices using appropriate artistic vocabulary.

Sculpture and Mixed Media

This unit will provide further opportunities for pupils to explore three-dimensional art and different materials. Specific learning objectives and activities will be added once the unit planning has been completed.

Throughout Art, pupils are encouraged to make choices about the materials and techniques they use. Adults provide practical demonstrations, visual examples and appropriate support to help pupils develop their skills. Activities are adapted to support different levels of fine motor control, sensory needs and confidence, while still encouraging pupils to experiment and develop their own ideas.

Impact

Pupils develop increasing confidence in exploring materials, experimenting with techniques and creating their own artwork. They begin to recognise and use artistic elements such as line, shape, pattern and texture, applying these in different ways across a range of projects.

Through drawing, cutting, tearing, arranging, printing and mark-making, pupils develop practical artistic skills alongside their fine motor control and hand–eye coordination. They become more confident in making creative choices and explaining what they have produced.

Pupils are increasingly able to look carefully at objects, images and artwork, describe what they notice and use simple artistic vocabulary to discuss their own work and the work of others. They develop pride in their creations and begin to recognise that art can be explored, changed and improved through experimentation and refinement.

 

Art – Pioneer Curriculum

Intent

At The Rowans Primary, our Art Pioneer Curriculum aims to develop pupils’ creativity, imagination and confidence through practical, hands-on artistic experiences. Pupils explore a range of materials, techniques, artists and historical art forms, developing their ability to express ideas, experiment with different approaches and create their own artwork.

Our curriculum is designed to be accessible and meaningful for pupils with a range of SEND and social, emotional and mental health needs. We recognise that art can provide an alternative way for pupils to communicate, express emotions and experience success. Through structured projects, sensory exploration and opportunities for individual choice, pupils develop fine motor skills, perseverance, problem-solving and pride in their achievements.

Learning connects art with historical and geographical themes, allowing pupils to explore how people have used art to represent their beliefs, surroundings and experiences. We aim to encourage pupils to take creative risks, appreciate different styles and develop their own artistic identity in a supportive environment.

Implementation

Art is delivered through structured units that develop pupils’ creative skills and understanding progressively. Learning is practical and process-focused, providing opportunities to explore materials, practise techniques, develop designs and produce finished pieces of artwork.

Pupils explore Anglo-Saxon and Viking design, artwork inspired by natural disasters, and Roman mosaics and sculpture. They investigate pattern, symbols, colour, texture, movement and form, using a variety of media and techniques, including drawing, painting, collage, clay modelling and mosaic creation.

Teaching is adapted to meet pupils’ individual needs through clear demonstrations, visual examples, manageable steps and access to app