At Key Stage 1, pupils begin to explore art and design in a more structured way, building on their natural creativity and imaginative thinking developed during the Early Years. The National Curriculum for Art & Design sets out clear expectations to support the development of children’s artistic knowledge, skills, and appreciation.

By the end of Key Stage 1, pupils should be taught to:

• Use a range of materials creatively to design and make products.

  Pupils explore different media and materials to express their ideas and develop practical making skills.

• Use drawing, painting and sculpture to develop and share their ideas, experiences and imagination.

  Children create artworks inspired by observation, imagination, and personal experiences, using 2D and 3D techniques.

• Develop a wide range of art and design techniques, using colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form, and space.

  Pupils learn to experiment with and combine visual elements to create expressive and purposeful pieces.

• Learn about the work of a range of artists, craft makers, and designers, describing the differences and similarities between different practices and disciplines, and making links to their own work.

  Children study a variety of artists from different times, places, and cultures. They compare styles, media, and approaches, and apply these influences in their own creative processes.

Our Approach at St Mary’s:

Through carefully planned and progressive lessons, children at St Mary’s engage in practical and reflective art-making that links directly to the National Curriculum aims. We ensure that:

• Children are introduced to famous and diverse artists, helping them understand art in a wider cultural context.

• Lessons are hands-on and exploratory, allowing children to experiment and develop confidence.

• Vocabulary development is woven through all lessons to support children in articulating their artistic choices and reflections.

This foundation prepares pupils for deeper artistic study in Key Stage 2, while nurturing creativity, curiosity, and self-expression.