When I say artist I mean the one who is building things … some with a brush, some with a shovel, some choose a pen.

Jackson Pollock

Aim

Our principal aim is to create an environment where all pupils feel inspired, and excited to explore and develop a range of new Art skills.  Art & Design is a subject where there are no wrong answers.  It deals with the sense of vision in a way that no other subject can. The Art department at Warwick Prep is a highly creative environment where the pupils' individuality is celebrated and developed.

Approach

Housed in a purpose built, bright, spacious and well-equipped studio; the pupils experience drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture.

In the Pre-Prep department Art is taught by the form teacher in the form classroom, supported by the Head of Art, Design & Technology.  The children are encouraged to develop a range of skills including observing, recording and communicating whilst using a wide range of media and techniques.  We aim to encourage independent learning by nurturing creativity and imagination.  The curriculum is thematic-based and supports the learning in other subject areas.

In the Prep department lessons are taught in half classes of around 12 pupils for an hour a week by the specialist Head of Art, Design & Technology.  The girls are given the opportunity to experiment and explore Art using a range of media and techniques in both two and three dimensions.  They build on the knowledge learnt in Pre-Prep, developing their observing, recording and visual communication skills. As their confidence grows they will be encouraged to take more risks with the emphasis firmly on the individual, nurturing their artistic and experimental growth.  These skills are developed alongside an understanding of both historic and contemporary art practice.

Pupils in Year 5 visit Compton Verney and Year 6 girls have the opportunity to work with a visiting artist in residence.  Art Scholarships to senior schools are often undertaken, and girls' work is entered for national and local competitions and exhibitions.

What will my child study?

• Year 1 - Ourselves, Harvest and Food, Toys, Bonfire Night, Christmas, Antarctic/Arctic, Katie Morag, Easter/Mother’s Day and Mini Beasts.
• Year 2 - Kenya, Autumn, Guy Fawkes, Christmas, Winter, Transport, Easter and The Seaside.  
• Year 3 - Natural Forms, Sweet Shop, Marine Life.
• Year 4 - African Masks, Flower Power, Musical Instruments.  
• Year 5 - Overlapping Objects, Botanical Gardens, Structures and Gears.  
• Year 6 - Towers, Under the Microscope.  Throughout the years the children will learn how to record from observation, imagination and experience through a range of media and techniques in both two and three dimensional media whilst gaining knowledge of a range of artists, designers and craft workers.