At Oldway, we aim for a high-quality art curriculum to engage, inspire and challenge pupils so that pupils develop the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art. The art curriculum is designed around these key themes:

• thinking critically, exploring ideas, recording experiences;

• techniques in drawing, painting, printing, 3D and collage

• how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and diversity of our nation.

At Oldway, we are passionate about art as we believe it allows children to think creatively, work collaboratively, develop resilience and supports them to develop understanding about the world around them. Art allows children to explore their ideas, express themselves, communicate in a variety of ways and develop independence, problem-solving and reflection skills. Through art, children develop skills in selfexpression, develop their self-worth, self- esteem and confidence.

Children participate in a range of art projects throughout their time at Oldway, both individually and in groups. Through art, we encourage children to be proud of their work and allow opportunities for children to create finished pieces of work. These are often displayed within the classroom, corridors or showcased at special events in-school and out-of-school.

From nursery, we teach art following the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum and National Curriculum and use a range of topics to support development of skills in:

• drawing;

• painting;

• printing;

• 3D and collage.

Children are exposed to different forms of art and a range of classic, modern and local artists, allowing them to develop curiosity, questioning and to expand their understanding of art and how it is created using different materials.