The aims of the subject:
The subject of art and design is recognised in the National
Curriculum structure as an essential foundation subject. This is
because art and design fulfils a range of functions within the
education of the child, some of which are specific to art and
design and some which are shared with other arts forms. Art and
design:
- Offers a vehicle for personal expression
- Stimulates creativity and imagination through the use of
artistic media
- Makes an important contribution to creative and mental
growth
- Develops visual literacy, which is essential if a pupil is to
understand and respond to the contemporary visual environment.
This is the unique contribution of the subject - the development
of visual awareness - "the education of seeing".
Through engagement in art and design activities, pupils:
- Develop their ability to make informed aesthetic judgments both
in relation to their own personal artistic practice, and the work
of other artists, craftspeople and designers
- Learn about the role and function of art, craft and design in
both their own and other cultures in order to broaden their
cultural knowledge and understanding.