Art at St Mary’s Hampton
At St Mary’s Hampton, we believe that art is a vital part of a rich and balanced curriculum. Through high-quality art education, pupils are encouraged to explore their creativity, develop confidence and express their ideas and emotions in a variety of ways.
Our art curriculum is carefully designed to align with the National Curriculum and supports pupils’ artistic development from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. We take a progressive approach so that skills, knowledge and understanding are built upon year by year, allowing children to revisit and refine techniques while broadening their artistic experiences.
How Art Is Taught
At St Mary’s Hampton, art is taught using the principles and resources of AccessArt, which promote creativity, inclusion and high-quality artistic outcomes. This approach places emphasis on exploration, experimentation and the creative process, rather than simply producing a final piece of work.
Lessons are carefully sequenced and include opportunities for pupils to:
- Explore a wide range of materials, tools and techniques
- Develop drawing, painting, printing, sculpture and mixed-media skills
- Learn about artists, designers and craftspeople from a range of cultures and backgrounds
- Generate ideas, make choices, take creative risks and reflect on their work
In EYFS, children engage in art through play-based, sensory and exploratory experiences that develop fine motor skills and early creativity. In Key Stages 1 and 2, pupils build on these foundations by developing increasing control, skill and independence, applying techniques with purpose and confidence.
Art is taught as a practical subject where discussion, observation and reflection are key. Pupils are encouraged to talk about their own work and the work of others, using appropriate vocabulary to describe processes, techniques and outcomes.
How Art Is Assessed
Assessment in art at St Mary’s Hampton is ongoing and formative. It focuses on pupils’ progress in skills, knowledge and creative thinking rather than comparison of final outcomes.
Teachers assess learning through:
- Observation of pupils during lessons
- Discussion and questioning to explore understanding and intent
- Review of sketchbooks and practical work over time
- Pupils’ ability to reflect on and evaluate their own work
Progress is measured by how well pupils develop and apply skills, build confidence, show creativity and demonstrate increasing independence as they move through the school. This approach ensures that assessment supports learning and celebrates each child’s unique artistic journey.
Across all phases, art lessons at St Mary’s Hampton are designed to inspire curiosity, nurture creativity and ensure that every child sees themselves as an artist.