Art

Art Overview

At Tibshelf Infant and Nursery School, we provide high-quality art experiences that inspire, engage, and challenge children to reach their creative potential.

Intent

We believe art supports children’s mental health and wellbeing, allowing them to express themselves creatively while building confidence and resilience. Our curriculum encourages exploration, reflection, and sharing.

In EYFS, children develop skills through Expressive Arts and Design, exploring materials, creating, performing, and expressing ideas.

In KS1, pupils:

• Use a range of materials creatively
• Develop skills in drawing, painting, and sculpture
• Explore key art elements (colour, line, shape, texture)
• Learn about artists and make links to their own work

Implementation

We provide opportunities for children to experiment, create, and develop a love of art.

• EYFS: Children explore a wide range of materials through play and guided activities, developing creativity, communication, and imagination.
• KS1: We follow the Access Art scheme, teaching skills in half-termly units linked to artists and techniques.

Children:

• Use sketchbooks to develop ideas
• Build skills progressively
• Explore and evaluate artwork
• Learn about artists to inspire, not copy

Our curriculum balances technical skills with creativity and personal expression.

Impact

We assess art through discussion, observation, and outcomes rather than formal testing.

We use:

• Ongoing formative assessment
• EYFS Early Learning Goals
• End-of-unit discussions
• “I CAN…” statements
• Pupil voice

This ensures children develop confidence, creativity, and a strong understanding of artistic processes.