Learning

Art

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Welcome to the Art & Design department at the King David High School. We believe in fostering creativity, imagination and visual expression in all our students. Through our vibrant and inclusive curriculum, we empower learners to explore artistic traditions, develop technical skills and express ideas confidently and creatively.

Our ethos is centred on developing Artists who can Explore, Create, Understand and Evaluate art in its many forms. We encourage students to learn through experimentation, cultural awareness, critical reflection and personal expression.

Overview of the curriculum (KS3–KS5)

Key Stage 3

In Years 7–9, students build core artistic skills and creative confidence. Topics include formal elements like line, tone, texture and colour, alongside project themes such as sea-life textures, African textiles and fantasy cities. Work includes drawing, print-making, sculpture, mixed media and digital art.

Key Stage 4

In Years 10–11 students follow the AQA Art & Design GCSE curriculum, engaging in both practical and contextual work. Projects develop skills in fine art, printmaking, graphic communication, textiles, 3D design and photography. Portfolio building and an end-of-course exhibition are key highlights.

Key Stage 5

At Sixth Form level we offer A-Level Fine Art and A-Level Graphic Communication, continuing to develop depth, conceptual strength and specialist artistic techniques. Students produce sustained projects, investigate context and build portfolios for higher education and creative careers.

Assessment and feedback approach

Assessment is carefully integrated into the curriculum. At GCSE, students produce a portfolio (60%) and sit a final, externally set exam (40%). Across all levels, students receive regular feedback that supports progress, encourages reflection and helps refine skills. Sketchbooks and project journals are used to track development and artistic thinking.

Staff list and teacher specialisms

• Head of Department: Mrs C. Waxman

• Art teachers: Miss S. Piterman & Miss G. Davies

• Technician: Miss D. Taylor

Our team supports a range of expertise across traditional and digital media, helping students explore fine art, textiles, graphic communication and mixed media art.

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Resources, revision guides & homework expectations

Students are supported with structured homework tasks that extend classroom learning, help prepare portfolios and develop critical art knowledge. Revision guidance focuses on contextual understanding of artists, development of personal themes, and technical proficiency across media.

Additional support materials are provided where needed throughout the year.

Extra-curricular clubs and enrichment opportunities

The Art department promotes enrichment beyond the classroom including art clubs, workshops and gallery visits. Students are encouraged to enter external competitions and exhibitions to showcase their creative achievements.

Career pathways

Studying Art & Design builds creative and analytical skills relevant to careers in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Architecture, Animation, Fashion and Textiles, Photography, Creative Media and Teaching. The department supports students in developing portfolios that enable progression to university and vocational creative programmes.

Department achievements

Our students produce work of high calibre at GCSE and A-Level and have the opportunity to exhibit their work in end-of-course shows.

Contact information

For further details about the Art & Design department, please contact the school office:

The King David High School

Eaton Road, Higher Crumpsall, Manchester, UK, M8 5DY

0161 740 7248

admin@kdhigh.co.uk