Art, Craft & Design
Subject Overview
Art, Craft & Design provides a creative outlet for students to express their ideas and explore visual language. It is deeply connected to personal identity, culture, and communication.
The GCSE in Art, Craft and Design is a broad and flexible course that requires students to develop an appreciation of the creative process through a practical response, using a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional media, materials, techniques and processes. Students should explore critically how artists, craftspeople and designers from diverse cultures, times and societies have arrived at solutions and communicated meaning using the formal elements. Students should use this knowledge when developing new ideas, recording observations and creating outcomes which fully realise their personal intentions. Pearson Edexcel Link and Assessment grid. (Click for links).
Curriculum Intent
To build creative, critical, and practical skills through a broad exploration of media, materials, and artistic styles. The course encourages independent enquiry and experimentation.
Curriculum Implementation
The curriculum is delivered through structured lessons, hands-on learning, and regular formative assessments. Lessons are sequenced to build on prior knowledge and prepare students for examinations.
Curriculum Impact
We measure the impact of our curriculum through internal assessments, external qualifications, and student feedback. Our aim is for all students to achieve their full potential.
Curriculum Map
Enrichment Opportunities
Students have access to clubs, trips, guest speakers, and other enrichment activities to broaden their understanding and enthusiasm for the subject.
Supporting Students
We support SEND, EAL and more able learners through differentiation, targeted support, and extension opportunities.
How Parents/Carers Can Support Their Child
Encourage your child to sketch at home and visit galleries or exhibitions. Support the use of sketchbooks and experimentation with materials.
Useful websites:
- Tate Kids
- BBC Bitesize – Art
- Pinterest (for inspiration)
Assessment and Feedback
KS3: Assessment is based on sketchbook work, final pieces, and written reflections. Feedback supports creativity, technique, and interpretation of artist influence.
GCSE: Coursework portfolio (60%) and externally set task (40%). Students receive feedback on concept development, technical execution, and annotation.
Future Pathways
Art can lead to careers in fine art, graphic design, animation, illustration, architecture, fashion, interior design, and creative media. It provides a foundation for post-16 creative arts qualifications.