Art
At Westgate Primary School, we believe every child is entitled to a rich, inclusive and inspiring Art and Design education. Our curriculum fulfils the requirements of the National Curriculum while providing a broad, balanced and forward-thinking programme that nurtures creativity, curiosity and confidence in all learners.
Drawing on the principles of the AccessArt Primary Art Curriculum, our approach is contemporary and diverse, offering meaningful opportunities for pupils to explore a wide range of artistic disciplines, techniques, materials and cultural influences. The curriculum is designed to support teachers of all levels of experience, ensuring that high-quality art provision is consistent across the school.
We aim to develop pupils’ skills progressively so they can observe, explore and record ideas from first-hand experience and imagination. Children learn to use materials and tools with increasing control and proficiency, and develop an understanding of key visual and tactile elements including colour, line, pattern, texture, tone, shape, form and space.
Our curriculum encourages children to experiment, take creative risks and express their own ideas through art. As they move through the school, pupils learn to think critically, reflect on their work and discuss the work of others using the language of art and design. They encounter a diverse range of artists, craftspeople and designers—past and present—broadening their cultural understanding and recognising the role of art in shaping history, society and everyday life.
Art at Westgate is flexible and responsive, enabling us to tailor learning to the needs and interests of our pupils and community. Through an emphasis on inclusion, high expectations and creative freedom, we ensure every child feels valued as an artist and understands that their creativity has purpose, relevance and importance in the wider world.