Links Multi Academy Trust

Art & Design

At Links Academy, students have the opportunity to explore their creativity and use a range of media. At KS3 pupils will gain exposure to a range of forms and artists whilst experimenting with techniques before going on to work through the ART GCSE course for those who choose it as an option.

KS3

KS4

What We Do

At Key Stage 3, students have two 50-minute art lessons per week, where they develop their creativity and artistic skills through engaging and varied projects.

Students study:

A range of artists, art movements, and cultural influences.
Core art techniques, including drawing, painting, and sculpture.
The formal elements of art (line, shape, form, tone, texture, pattern, colour).

Assessment Process:

Each half-term project is assessed through weekly feedback and at the project’s conclusion:

Sketchbooks are reviewed weekly with feedback on what went well, areas for improvement, and a learning question to deepen understanding.
Progress Trackers in sketchbooks record ongoing comments and targets, helping students focus on next steps.
At the end of each project, students receive a working grade based on four key areas:
- Generating Ideas
- Knowledge
- Evaluating
- Making

Why We Do It

The Key Stage 3 Art curriculum is designed to:

Engage, inspire, and challenge students to think creatively and develop their own ideas.
Foster proficiency in a variety of artistic techniques, including drawing, painting, and sculpture.
Promote an understanding of great artists, craft makers, and designers, as well as the historical and cultural development of art.
Build a foundation of skills and confidence that prepares students for GCSE Art if they choose to continue their studies.

Art is an important part of the curriculum, encouraging self-expression and creative problem-solving while building students’ appreciation of the world’s artistic heritage.

How You Can Help

Parents and carers can support students’ learning and enjoyment of art by:

Engaging with Their Work:

Ask to see their sketchbook and talk about the projects they’re working on.
Praise their efforts and creativity to build their confidence.

Encouraging Creativity at Home:
- Provide basic art supplies (e.g., pencils, sketchpads, or paints) and encourage them to practice drawing or painting outside of lessons.
- Suggest creative projects like designing a card, poster, or small sculpture.
Exploring Art Together:
- Visit art galleries or museums if possible and discuss what you see together.
- Watch art-related TV programs or explore online resources like Art UK or Tate Kids.
Reinforcing Study Skills:
- Help your child manage their time to complete sketchbook tasks or practice techniques.

What We Do

We follow the Edexcel GCSE Art, Craft, and Design specification, which consists of:

60% Coursework: Students create a portfolio (sketchbook or folder) showcasing their exploration, development, and refinement of artistic ideas.
40% Externally Set Assignment (Exam): In January of Year 11, students respond to a themed starting point, preparing for 10 weeks and then creating a final artistic piece during extended studio sessions.

Artistic Media and Techniques:
Students explore a wide range of media and materials, including:

Drawing, painting, and sculpture.
Photography and mixed media.
Installation art and other experimental approaches.

Through independent and teacher-guided projects, students respond to themes and ideas, developing their creativity and critical thinking.

Why We Do It

The GCSE Art and Design course allows students to explore their imaginative and experimental sides, fostering creativity and self-expression.

Benefits of Studying Art:

1. Skill Development: Students gain problem-solving, project management, and research skills by working on creative tasks from conception to completion.

2. Career Opportunities: Art and Design GCSE provides pathways to careers in:

Fashion, product, or interior design.
Advertising, media, and film.
Theatre, makeup, and beauty.
Photography, museums, and galleries.

3. Emotional Wellbeing: Art provides therapeutic value, helping students express emotions and develop resilience.

Broader Learning:
Students learn to appreciate art history, research and analyse artists’ works, and develop their opinions. The emphasis is on practical, visual expression rather than extensive written work.

How You Can Help

Parents and carers can play a vital role in supporting students’ success in GCSE Art and Design.

1. Engage with Their Work:

Talk to your child about their coursework and sketchbook.
Encourage them to share their ideas and creative projects.

2. Encourage Inspiration:

Suggest they take photos of objects, people, and places they find interesting.
Provide opportunities to visit art galleries or museums. Discuss the artwork together, focusing on what you both enjoy or find intriguing.

3. Support Creativity at Home:

Encourage sketching or keeping a personal sketchbook.
Watch TV programs about art and its history together.

4. Use Helpful Resources:

Art2Day (inspiration for GCSE ideas).
Pearson Edexcel’s website for examples of GCSE-level work.
Explore online galleries like Tate Galleries, White Cube, and Art UK.

Curriculum Maps

KS3 Art & Design Curriculum Map

KS4 Art & Design Curriculum Map

21 April 2025 Bank Holiday 22 April 2025 School Based Inset 23 April 2025 MAT Inset 24 April 2025 Student Performance Review Day |

Links Multi Academy Trust

Art & Design

Art & Design

Curriculum Maps

About Us

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