Department Vision
The department is a supportive environment that encourages exploration and self-expression, as it boosts confidence and motivates students. Exposure to various art forms and cultures broadens students’ perspective and inspires innovation. Art lessons effectively nurture pupils’ artistic abilities, critical thinking, and appreciation for the arts.
Main Aims
Art and Design aims to nurture creativity by encouraging students to express themselves through a range of media, from painting and sculpture to photography and digital art. It focuses on building core artistic skills and critical thinking, while developing cultural awareness through exploration of diverse art styles and historical contexts. Students are supported in gaining confidence, discovering their personal artistic voice, and benefiting from the well-being and emotional expression that creative practice offers. Collaboration is encouraged through group projects and community initiatives, and art is integrated with other subjects to highlight its relevance across fields. Learners are given opportunities to exhibit their work, boosting motivation and recognition, while also receiving guidance on artistic careers and portfolio development. Critical reflection is embedded throughout, enabling students to analyse and evaluate their own work and that of others. Overall, the course provides a dynamic and supportive environment that fosters artistic talent, personal growth, and creative independence.
Years 7-9
In Year 7, students are introduced to the basics of art and design, including drawing, painting, and sculpture. They learn to use a variety of materials and techniques to express their ideas and develop their observational skills. Topics might include still life, landscapes, and basic colour theory.
Building on the foundations laid in Year 7, Year 8 students explore more complex techniques and concepts. They might study different art movements and styles, such as Impressionism or Cubism, and experiment with mixed media and digital art. Projects could include portraiture, abstract art, and thematic studies.
In Year 9, students are encouraged to develop their own artistic voice and style. They undertake more independent projects, often inspired by contemporary artists and designers. Techniques such as printmaking, advanced painting, and 3D design are commonly explored. Students also learn to critically evaluate their own work and that of others.
GCSE
- Exam board AQA
- Content: Fine Art endorsement
GCSE in Art is open for students who have an interest in Art and who are keen to draw regularly, be creative and complete research in their own time, in preparation for their Art and Design lessons.
Art at the GCSE level consists of three major projects and an exam in March of Year 11, (with several weeks of preparation time). All the projects will give students the opportunity to build on strengths and try out different materials. Themes vary and often include “Still life and natural forms” and “Portraiture and the figure’. All Students gather information about the theme, completing sketches, ideas, and designs in their sketchbook. This research is then developed through a variety of different media, including drawing, painting, print-making, and three-dimensional work. Students are encouraged to develop their own ideas, producing several different outcomes.
Throughout the course, visits will be made to galleries and students will be expected to use the Art and Design section of the school and/or the local library. This approach stimulates ideas and helps students to complete the Critical Studies aspect of the course.
Throughout the year, students are given feedback on their work. Most of this occurs through discussion and verbal appraisal. We mark projects against GCSE assessment criteria, giving students grades and written comments. Reports and parents’ evening events give students formal feedback, whilst the students’ teacher is available to ask for advice and discuss ideas.
During each of the projects, students will have an interim assessment which gives them a clear understanding of their working standard and targets for progress. At the end of the course, students are entered for the AQA Exam Board GCSE in Art and Design Fine Art endorsement. The work is marked as a whole, in the first instance by the Art Department and then by an external AQA moderator.
QG Super Curriculum
Queen’s Gate students consistently demonstrate their artistic prowess by actively participating in art competitions at both regional and national levels. Their dedication and talent have earned them numerous accolades, showcasing the high calibre of our art programme.
Our students’ artwork is not only celebrated in competitions but also plays a significant role in the community. A notable example is our collaboration with the Royal Brompton Hospital. Through this partnership, the vibrant and inspiring creations of our students are displayed throughout the hospital, enriching the environment for both patients and staff. This initiative aims to provide a more welcoming and comforting atmosphere, contributing positively to the wellbeing of everyone at the hospital.
The presence of our students’ art in such a prestigious institution underscores the impact and quality of their work. It also highlights the importance we place on using art to make a difference in the community. Queen’s Gate is proud of our students’ achievements and their contributions to enhancing spaces with their creativity and vision.
