Art and Design

What Pupils Learn

The art and design curriculum at Fishponds CE Primary School, taught through the Lighthouse Schools Partnership progression of skills, offers pupils a rich, carefully structured learning journey from Year 1 to Year 6. Children experience a broad range of media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, textiles, printing and digital art. This progression ensures that techniques are introduced, revisited and refined over time, enabling pupils to develop secure foundational skills before moving on to more complex artistic processes. Through this approach, pupils learn how to observe closely, experiment confidently and express their ideas with increasing precision and independence.

As part of their learning, pupils explore the work of artists, designers and craft makers from different periods and cultures. They develop the vocabulary needed to discuss and evaluate artwork and make meaningful links to their own creative choices. Sketchbooks are used throughout Key Stage 2 to record observations, trial techniques and refine ideas. By the end of Year 6, pupils leave Fishponds CE Primary School as confident, thoughtful and imaginative young artists who value creativity and understand its place in the wider world.

How Learning Happens

The art curriculum at Fishponds CE Primary School enables pupils to develop as confident, imaginative and reflective young artists. Through a well‑structured and progressive approach to teaching art, children build a secure and expanding skillset that grows year on year. From Early Years to Year 6, pupils show increasing control, creativity and precision across a range of techniques. Work displayed throughout the school demonstrates clear progression, greater willingness to experiment and the effective use of rich artistic vocabulary.

Pupils are encouraged to talk confidently about art, both their own and the work of others. They learn to use appropriate terminology to describe techniques, materials and artistic styles, developing the ability to express opinions, justify their choices and thoughtfully evaluate outcomes. This reflective approach strengthens their understanding and deepens their appreciation of the subject.

Creativity and independence are nurtured through varied opportunities to explore ideas and make artistic decisions. As pupils gain confidence, they become more willing to take risks, try new approaches and refine their work. These experiences support wider personal growth, helping to build resilience, problem‑solving skills and independent thinking.

Children at Fishponds CE Primary School value and enjoy the arts. Engagement in Creative Arts Days and whole‑school projects fosters pride, enthusiasm and a strong sense of community. By the time they leave, pupils carry with them a positive attitude towards creativity and an appreciation of the important role art plays in their lives and in the wider world.