Art

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Introduction

Welcome to the Art Department which is arranged over two floors in a self- contained block in Aquis Court. On the ground floor, there are two general purpose studios and a dedicated ceramics studio. On the first floor there is one large studio which also contains printing presses for a variety of fine art techniques. In addition, there is a suite of computers and a well-stocked Art Library.

Lower School

All pupils study Art in the First and Second Forms and many opt to continue in the Third Form. Pupils have the opportunity to work in a variety of media, including painting and drawing, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture. Drawing is seen as an important discipline and pupils are encouraged to explore the world around them through primary and secondary observational drawing. The work of other artists is also studied, and pupils are introduced to contextual studies to support their practice.

Third Form

In the Third Form, pupils follow a one-year foundation style course introducing the expectations of GCSE Art and preparing those considering the subject for future study. With two periods per week, they develop strong studio practice, including a well-presented sketchbook and clear annotation, while refining drawing skills and exploring a range of techniques and artists. This course builds confidence, independence, and a solid foundation for GCSE.

GCSE (Middle School)

The Art exam syllabus comprises a coursework element along with a timed exam. Pupils are encouraged to keep a coursework sketchbook of their art as it develops through recording, developing, refining and presentation stages. Pupils are actively encouraged to take creative risks, develop their technical skills and work in a variety of media.

A Level (Sixth Form)

At this level, pupils are expected to work independently on individual projects. Candidates receive guidance on ways they can develop their ideas, and instruction is given on a range of advanced techniques. Much of their work is completed in the studio and through workshops and critiques. Guidance is also given on portfolio selection for those intending to study Art, Architecture and Design at university.

Art Clinics are held on two evenings per week after school for GCSE and A Level pupils. Pupils can attend these sessions to explore the subject further.

Co-Curricular

The Department aims to offer a rich and varied co-curricular programme designed to extend pupils’ artistic experience beyond the classroom. Pupils have the opportunity to engage in specialised sessions including clay and ceramics workshops, portrait painting, printmaking, and sculpture, alongside exploration in a wide range of additional media. These activities enable pupils to refine their technical skills, experiment with new processes, and develop greater confidence in their creative practice.

Trips/Competitions/Societies

The Art Department arranges a variety of trips to galleries in London and nearby locations. There are also regular trips abroad to International and European art centres such as New York Paris, Amsterdam and Berlin.

University & Careers

A Level Art provides a strong foundation for a wide range of creative degree courses, including:

Fine Art (painting, sculpture, printmaking)
Graphic Design / Visual Communication
Illustration
Fashion Design / Textiles
Photography
Animation / Digital Media
Architecture
Interior Design
Film / Set Design
Art History or Curating

Many students go on to complete a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design before specialising at university. This helps build a portfolio and explore different creative disciplines.

Studying A Level Art develops creativity, problem-solving, and visual communication skills that are valuable across many industries. Potential career paths include: