Art at Hartford 2026
OUR INTENT - What we Teach in Art
At Hartford Primary School, we believe that every child is an artist. Our art curriculum gives pupils the opportunity to explore, experiment and express their ideas in a safe and supportive environment. We want children to enjoy art, take creative risks and feel proud of what they produce.
We have designed our curriculum to build pupils’ skills gradually over time. Children learn how to use a range of materials and techniques such as drawing, painting, printing and sculpture. They revisit key skills regularly so they can develop greater control, confidence and independence as they move through the school.
As well as making art, pupils learn about the work of a diverse range of artists from different times and cultures. They look closely at how art reflects people’s lives, beliefs and experiences, and begin to understand that there is not just one ‘right way’ to create.
We place a strong emphasis on developing observational skills, creativity and the ability to talk about art. Children are encouraged to describe what they see, explain their choices and reflect on their work in a thoughtful way. Sketchbooks are used across the school as a place to explore ideas, practice techniques and record their artistic journey.
At the end of Key Stage 2, we want our pupils to see themselves as creative individuals who are willing to try new things, think differently and use art as a way to communicate their ideas and experiences.
OUR IMPLEMENTATION - How We Teach Art
Our art curriculum is carefully planned so that pupils build their skills step by step across the school. Each unit focuses on a particular area of art, such as drawing, painting, printing, or sculpture, and pupils are given time to practise and develop their techniques.
In drawing, children learn skills such as shading, line work, perspective and proportion, using materials including pencil, charcoal and ink. In painting, they explore colour mixing, brush control and texture with watercolours and acrylics. Printing units include block and relief printing techniques, while in sculpture, pupils work with clay, wire and recycled materials.
Sketchbooks are a key part of lessons. Pupils use them to record observations, experiment with materials, plan ideas and reflect on their work. Teachers model techniques clearly but allow children to develop their own ideas so outcomes are varied.
Alongside practical work, pupils learn about a wide range of artists, designers and craft makers. This includes artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Romero Britto and Zaha Hadid, as well as contemporary and local artists. Pupils also study art from different cultures, including Guatemalan textile tradition, Ancient Mayan ceramicists and African printmaking helping them understand the context behind artwork.
Discussion is built into lessons so pupils can talk about their own work and the work of others. Opportunities such as trips, visitors and links with local artists help make learning meaningful.
OUR IMPACT - What Our Children Learn in Art
The impact of our art curriculum can be seen in the confidence and creativity of our pupils. Over time, children develop a strong set of practical skills and are able to choose and use materials independently. Their sketchbooks show a clear journey of ideas, experimentation and improvement.
Pupils can talk about art with increasing confidence. They describe techniques they have used and discuss the work of different artists, designers and craft makers, recognising how art reflects culture and experience.
Children take pride in their work and enjoy the process of creating. They are willing to try new approaches, learn from mistakes and develop their own style.
By the time they leave Key Stage 2, pupils have experienced a broad range of materials and techniques and have learned about artists from different backgrounds and time periods. They leave Hartford Primary as confident, creative individuals who understand that art can be used to express ideas and communicate meaning.
The Curriculum Lead for Art: Mrs Lynda Ovenden