News & Letters
fluffy guy next to an easel

Key Stage 2


Art

Art is where creativity and imagination come to life, helping us see the world in new and colorful ways.

About Art at New Heights - Key Stage 2

At Key Stage 2, our art curriculum is designed to ignite children’s imaginations, inspire their creativity, and allow them to explore different materials and techniques that will stay with them for life.

Subject Content

At KS2, we believe that art is not just about creating beautiful pieces of work—it’s about providing children with the opportunity to express themselves, develop their creativity, and build skills that enhance their emotional and intellectual growth.

Our art curriculum builds on the skills and experiences gained in earlier years, while offering new challenges that promote further artistic development. Here’s what our art lessons involve:

  1. Exploring a Variety of Media and Techniques
    Children in KS2 are encouraged to experiment with a wide range of materials and techniques, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and digital art. By using different tools and media, students develop a deeper understanding of how materials can be manipulated to create different effects.
  2. Developing Artistic Skills
    In KS2, we focus on refining key artistic skills, such as:
    • Drawing: Exploring line, shape, and shading to create depth and texture.
    • Colour Theory: Learning about primary, secondary, and complementary colours, and how to use them effectively in artwork.
    • Composition: Understanding how to arrange elements within a piece of artwork for balance and impact.
    • Sculpture: Working with three-dimensional materials, such as clay or recycled objects, to create sculptures and models.
    • Printmaking: Exploring different techniques, such as relief printing or monoprinting, to create multiple images from a single design.
  3. Artistic Reflection and Evaluation
    Art at New Heights encourages students to reflect on their own work and the work of others. By evaluating their creations, children learn to identify strengths and areas for improvement, which builds their critical thinking and self-awareness. Students are also encouraged to share their ideas and interpretations, fostering discussion and collaboration.
  4. Incorporating Art into Other Subjects
    Art is often integrated with other areas of the curriculum. For example, students may create artwork inspired by a topic they are studying in history or geography, or they may use art to illustrate concepts in science. This cross-curricular approach makes art relevant and helps children see its connection to the wider world.
  5. Art Exhibitions and Displays
    At New Heights, we value the effort and creativity of every student, and we believe in celebrating their work. Throughout the year, students have the opportunity to showcase their artwork in class displays, school exhibitions, and at events. This provides a sense of accomplishment and pride in their creative achievements.
children's art - kids playing

Art is expression

Curriculum Principles

Art plays an essential role in a child’s development. It allows students to communicate their thoughts, ideas, and emotions in ways that words may not be able to express. At New Heights, we recognize the many benefits that art brings to children, including its ability to:

  • Foster Creativity: Art encourages children to think outside the box and approach problems in new and imaginative ways. By experimenting with different materials, processes, and styles, children learn to express their unique ideas and bring them to life. This creative thinking extends beyond the art classroom and can benefit problem-solving in all areas of life.
  • Develop Fine Motor Skills: Through activities like drawing, painting, and sculpting, children develop their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. The precision needed for certain art techniques helps improve dexterity and control, which can also enhance skills in other areas, such as writing and typing.
  • Promote Emotional Well-Being: Art provides a calm and therapeutic space for students to relax and express their emotions. It allows children to explore and communicate feelings that might be difficult to verbalize, promoting emotional health and resilience. The process of creating art can be soothing and helps children focus, manage stress, and feel a sense of accomplishment.
  • Encourage Self-Expression and Confidence: In our art lessons, children are encouraged to share their work and ideas with their peers, which builds confidence in their own abilities. Art helps children develop a sense of pride in their creations, and this positive reinforcement boosts self-esteem.
  • Enhance Critical Thinking and Observation Skills: Art encourages children to look closely at the world around them and develop their observation skills. Whether sketching from life, studying textures, or experimenting with colour theory, students learn to critically assess their work and make thoughtful decisions. This fosters an analytical mindset that is transferable to other subjects.
  • Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Art opens up opportunities to explore the history of art and various cultural expressions. Children are introduced to a wide range of artists, styles, and global art traditions. This exposure helps students appreciate diversity and understand the role of art in different cultures, fostering a sense of global awareness and empathy.

Assessment and Feedback

In KS2, we use:

  • Formative Assessment: Ongoing checks during lessons, such as questioning, observations, quizzes, or classwork, to identify learning needs and adjust teaching.
  • Summative Assessment: End-of-unit or term tests, like exams or final projects, to measure overall achievement.
Feedback is given in the following ways:
  • Verbal Feedback: Immediate responses during class, guiding students to correct or extend their work.
  • Written Feedback: Comments in books or worksheets highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Peer Feedback: Students reviewing each other’s work to encourage collaboration and reflection.

 

Self-Assessment: Students reflecting on their work, fostering independence and awareness of their learning

Links to Everyday Life

Art offers a peaceful and focused outlet for children to express themselves. The act of creating can be incredibly calming, helping children regulate their emotions and unwind from the stresses of school life. Whether they are lost in the flow of painting or sculpting, children experience the therapeutic benefits of creativity.

In a world full of distractions, art provides a valuable opportunity for mindfulness, where children can immerse themselves fully in the process of creating something personal and meaningful. It encourages patience and perseverance as students work to refine their ideas, and it teaches them to appreciate the process of creation, rather than just the end result.

At New Heights, Key Stage 2 art is not just a subject; it’s an experience that encourages exploration, builds emotional strength, and provides lasting skills for life. We are proud to nurture the creative potential in every child, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and passion to express themselves freely and imaginatively.

DEAR