Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.
Pablo Picasso

Intent   

The intent of Art at Bel Royal School is to develop pupils’ creativity, self‑expression and visual literacy, enabling them to engage with the world as confident, thoughtful and reflective artists. 

In line with the KS1 and KS2 Jersey Curriculum, we aim for pupils to: 

• Explore and experiment with a wide range of materials, techniques and processes 

• Develop skills in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art forms 

• Use sketchbooks to practise, record ideas and reflect on learning 

• Study the work of artists, designers and craftspeople from different cultures and time periods 

• Express ideas, emotions and responses visually 

• Build confidence to believe in their creativity and individuality 

• Ensure all pupils feel included, supported and able to succeed creatively 

Our curriculum is progressive and inclusive, nurturing both technical skills and personal expression. 

Implementation   

Art is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds skills and understanding progressively across Bel Royal School, following the Jersey Curriculum expectations. 

Key features of implementation include: 

• Regular opportunities for pupils to explore, experiment and refine their artistic skills 

• Teaching of core techniques such as line, tone, colour, texture, pattern and form 

• Use of sketchbooks to develop ideas, practise techniques and reflect on progress 

• Study of artists and artistic movements to inspire creativity and develop vocabulary 

• Links to other subjects such as:  

• History – exploring art from different periods and cultures 

• English – responding to texts and expressing ideas visually 

• Maths – exploring shape, pattern, symmetry and proportion 

• Encouragement of creative risk‑taking in a supportive environment 

• Adaptations to ensure all pupils are included and appropriately challenged 

Teachers model techniques clearly and provide structured opportunities for pupils to practise, reflect and improve. Pupils have a special sketchbook that follows them through their art learning journey at Bel Royal. The children take great pride in these books, as they are a celebration of their developing skills. Sketch books allow the children to practise different art skills before applying them to their own individual pieces. At Bel Royal School, we encourage the processes to be child-led and an opportunity for pupils to express themselves creatively. 

 

Impact   

As a result of the Art curriculum at Bel Royal School, pupils gain confidence in their creative abilities and develop the skills to express themselves visually. They show increasing control and skill when using a range of materials and techniques, alongside a growing understanding of artistic concepts and vocabulary. 

Pupils are able to talk about their own work and the work of others, reflecting on achievements and identifying areas for improvement. They develop resilience, independence and pride in their creative outcomes, understanding that art is a process as well as a final product. 

By the time pupils leave Bel Royal School, they have developed a strong foundation in artistic skills and creativity. They are confident to achieve their best, respectful of others’ ideas and cultures, and equipped with transferable skills such as observation, reflection and self‑expression that support learning across the curriculum and beyond. 

In Key Stage 1, children will: 

• Use a wide range of materials creatively to design and make artwork 

• Explore drawing, painting and sculpture to share ideas, experiences and imagination 

• Develop core techniques using colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form and space 

• Talk about the work of artists and designers and make simple links to their own work 

• Build confidence and enjoyment in creative expression through practical exploration 

In Key Stage 2, pupils build on earlier learning to: 

• Develop greater control and mastery of art techniques and materials 

• Use sketchbooks to record observations, practise skills and revisit ideas 

• Experiment with a wider range of materials and processes with increasing independence 

• Develop informed opinions about art and design using subject‑specific vocabulary 

• Learn about significant artists, architects and designers and understand the cultural and historical impact of their work