Art
At Horsenden, we believe Art is an is mportant part of developing pupils’ ability and skills to express their individual creativity. Our Art curriculum is designed to inspire creativity, develop technical skills, and foster a deep appreciation for artistic expression. Following the Kapow Primary Art Scheme of Work, we provide a structured and progressive approach that builds knowledge, skills, and confidence in a wide range of artistic disciplines.
Pupils engage with key areas of artistic learning, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital art. Through carefully sequenced lessons, pupils explore different techniques, study influential artists, and develop their own creative voice. Each unit is designed to develop both practical skills and critical thinking, enabling pupils to analyse and respond to art with increasing depth. Over the course of their time at Horsenden, pupils study artists from different backgrounds, time periods, and movements, such as Frida Kahlo, William Morris and Banksy. Through exploring different artistic movements and techniques, pupils develop an understanding of how art conveys identity, storytelling, and social messages. This structured approach allows them to make meaningful connections between their own creativity and the wider world, ensuring all pupils feel represented while gaining a deeper appreciation for global artistic influences.
Sketchbooks are an integral part of our curriculum, providing pupils with a space to experiment with different materials, refine techniques, and document their creative journey. Pupils use these to record observations, test ideas, and develop personal responses to artistic stimuli. Each unit culminates in a final piece where pupils apply their learning, demonstrating their skills and creativity. Through self-evaluation and summative assessment, pupils reflect on their progress, celebrate their achievements, and identify areas for further development.
Oracy is at the heart of our art curriculum and is woven into every lesson. Pupils are encouraged to express their ideas, explain their creative decisions, and engage in thoughtful discussions about their own work and that of others. Talk is used as a tool for learning, with regular opportunities for evaluation, reflection, and collaborative decision-making. This focus on spoken language not only enhances pupils’ understanding of artistic techniques and processes; but also supports the development of confidence, critical thinking, and a shared creative vocabulary.
Curriculum Documents
Whole School Art Curriculum Map:
Progression of Art Skills:
Knowledge Organisers
Knowledge organisers capture the key knowledge and vocabulary that pupils will be taught in each unit of learning. They are used by class teachers and pupils in various ways to help pupils remember key information. Parents and carers can support pupils at home by discussing what they've been learning in art, using the knowledge organiser to guide discussions.
Art: Curriculum in Action
Year 2's peaceful penguins:
Reception become inspired by Van Gogh:
Year 2 mixed media work:
Year 3 explore with ink:
Year 2's Valiant Victoria Portraits:
Extended Art Curriculum
Portrait Home Learning (offered to all pupils across the school as an additional home learning task during a mid-year break):