The aim of the Art & Design courses at Key Stage 3 & 4 is to offer students the chance to develop a personal approch to their work though the acquisition of practical skills. Students are taught a wide range of techniques that encompass:
Drawing & Painting; ceramics and 3D and Textiles and Digital Photography ( the last, currently at KS4 only ).
An emphasis is placed upon the production of quality outcomes arrived at via a process of exploration and experiment. Whenever possible, ICT is used as a tool for the development of these ideas.
All students in Key Stage 3 are allocated two periods a week in which to study Art & Design. At Key Stage 4 students may opt for three periods of GCSE Art & Design or GCSE Digital Photography. A further option is available for self-motivated students in younger years who have shown an interest in, and an aptitude for, this subject.
GCSE fast track.Here, a small number of students study for GCSE alongside their KS3 peer group, sitting the exam either at the end of Year 9 or at the end of Year 10.