My Art
My Art is designed to foster creativity, expression, and independence in learners following a semi-formal pathway. Through carefully structured experiences and a rolling programme of topics, pupils are empowered to explore a variety of materials, tools, and artistic techniques in a way that meets their individual needs and interests.
A Creative Curriculum built around the child.
The My Art curriculum celebrates each pupil’s unique way of interacting with the world. It provides rich, sensory, and inclusive experiences, encouraging self-expression, communication, and exploration.
- Individual Expression: Children are encouraged to express themselves in their own way, whether through colour, texture, form, or movement.
- Pupil-Centred Approaches: Learning is adapted to suit each child's developmental stage, interests, and sensory preferences.
Promoting Independence Through Art
One of the key aims of the My Art curriculum is to nurture independence in learners.
- Choice-Making: Pupils are supported to make choices about materials, colours, and techniques, promoting decision-making and ownership of their work
- Process Over Product: Emphasis is placed on the creative process rather than a final outcome, encouraging perseverance, experimentation, and autonomy.
- Skill Development: Pupils gain confidence through repeated opportunities to use tools and techniques with increasing independence.
Exploring a Wide Range of Media
The curriculum introduces pupils to a broad variety of media to stimulate curiosity and creativity.
- 2D and 3D Materials: Children work with paint, collage, clay, textiles, printmaking, digital tools, and more.
- Sensory-Rich Opportunities: Media are chosen to engage different senses – from tactile experiences with textured materials to visual and auditory stimulation using light and sound.
- Collaborative and Individual Work: Pupils experience both independent projects and collaborative group artwork, building confidence and communication skills.
A Rolling Programme of Diverse Themes
To ensure a broad and balanced experience, the My Art curriculum follows a rolling programme of themes. This avoids repetition while allowing for depth and progression over time.
- Three-Year Rolling Programme: Topics rotate over a three-year cycle, ensuring pupils encounter a variety of ideas and inspirations without duplication.
- Thematic Units: Examples of rolling themes might include:
- Water
- Dinosaurs
- Holidays
- Cross-Curricular Links: Art topics are linked with other areas of learning, such as literacy, sensory stories, and physical development.
Celebrating Achievement
Every child’s contribution to art is valued and celebrated.
- Displays and Exhibitions: Pupil artwork is regularly displayed around the school and in class exhibitions.
- Reflection and Feedback: Children are supported to reflect on their work, giving simple feedback and celebrating their creative journeys.
Conclusion
The My Art strand of the semi-formal curriculum enables learners to explore, create, and express themselves in a safe, stimulating, and supportive environment. Through a structured yet flexible approach, children develop their independence, encounter a rich variety of media, and engage in a rolling programme that nurtures their artistic growth and individuality.