The intention of our Art and Design curriculum is to inspire and develop our children’s creative thinking; to explore, experiment and take risks. Our curriculum is broad, balanced and rich, developing the children’s proficiency, knowledge and skills in a variety of techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture, textiles, printing, collage and digital media. Children at St. Vincent’s school explore their ideas through well-sequenced lessons and record their learning in sketchbooks, building on prior learning and producing creative, imaginative, skilful work. The children explore the work from a range of diverse artists, designers and craft makers, including artists from the local area, evaluating different creative ideas in order to develop appreciation of all form of Art and Design. Our Art and Design curriculum is fully inclusive and we aim to foster a love of Art that the children can explore further in their future lives.  

In EYFS, the development of children’s artistic and cultural awareness supports their imagination and creativity. It is important that children have regular opportunities to engage with the arts, enabling them to explore and play with a wide range of media and materials. The quality and variety of what children see, hear and participate in is crucial for developing their understanding, self-expression, vocabulary and ability to communicate through the arts. The frequency, repetition and depth of their experiences are fundamental to their progress in interpreting and appreciating what they hear, respond to and observe.  Fine motor control and precision helps with hand-eye co-ordination, which is later linked to early literacy. Repeated and varied opportunities to explore and play with small world activities, puzzles, arts and crafts and the practice of using small tools, with feedback and support from adults, allow children to develop proficiency, control and confidence.