Visual Arts in the Senior School
"Every child is an artist" Pablo Picasso
At St Chris, we offer a diverse art curriculum for all years from Year 7 upwards. From the youngest years of the Senior School, students begin to build their confidence by working with a wide range of materials and being exposed to new experiences. Students are encouraged to explore their own creative ideas throughout their study and out-of-the-box thinking is encouraged alongside learning different techniques and styles. Students who join us at St Chris often suddenly develop a lifelong passion for art and can explore their interests in class, through co-curricular study, and in after School clubs. Those who choose to study art at GCSE can expect to exhibit their exam artwork alongside the A Level students in our highly attended annual Art Exhibition.
State-of-the-Art Facilities for Artistic Exploration
Our outstanding art facilities allow students to gain hands-on experience from the second they start their journey in the Senior School, learning from expert teachers with diverse experience in creative fields. In practise, our facilities and individualised teaching allow students to develop a creative mindset in a place where they feel safe and supported. Art lessons foster a sense of enjoyment through a child-centred approach which focuses on the individual's interests. Art is often theraputic and calming for those students who are just beginning to navigate life as young adults.
Hands-On Learning in the Creative Process
In the art department, we embrace hands-on learning, and believe theoretical concepts can come to life through practical application. Our students actively engage in creating tangible artworks, honing their artistic skills with the guidance of our experienced art faculty. Our art classrooms produce the most diverse artwork as each student sets out to deliver their ideas through unique expressions.
In Year 8, students undertake a live project; most recently, this was an illustration project which worked alongside the students' English studies, with a focus on publishing and creative career possibilities. Students often present their artwork to our Junior School pupils to enable them to build presentation and people skills from a young age, and to build their confidence when talking about their work. In Year 9, students take on a self-led project which is planned and delivered by themselves to further build students' sense of confidence and ownership over their study. Throughout their pre-GCSE practise, students develop an abundance of transferrable skills and have improved creative thinking.
As students progress to GCSE, our curriculum does not limit students by 'Option blocks', meaning students can take more than one art GCSE should they choose to do so. Students undertaking an art GCSE will take a foundation module at the beginning of the course which comprises a gallery of their work and contextual exploration of different artists. The GCSE has an overall practical approach with students' portfolios comprising 60% of the overall awarded grade and examinations comprising 40%.
Showcasing Talent through Student Exhibitions
We’re proud of the high calibre of our art students and often display current work at student exhibitions, gaining exposure in the local community and building confidence. This platform allows students to share their creativity with a broader audience, fostering a sense of accomplishment and pride. These events also spark conversations with teachers and parents.
Challenges that Inspire Artistic Growth
Our visual arts students take on challenging projects and competitions that foster problem-solving skills. Our emphasis on artistic challenges prepares students for the complexities of the creative process, encouraging them to think critically and innovatively. As the professional world begins to create an increasing number of creative job roles, students are encouraged in their studies to consider where their skills can take them beyond school.
We intersect art with other subjects, promoting interdisciplinary learning through creative approaches to language or number-based topics. This integration enhances creative thinking and provides a holistic educational experience, showcasing the interconnectedness of different fields.
Inspiring Creativity with Visiting Artists
Our students interact with accomplished visiting artists who share their insights and perspectives. These encounters expose students to diverse artistic influences and real-world applications of visual arts, broadening their understanding of the artistic landscape. Through this, students are invited to collaborate in art projects that foster teamwork and communication skills. Learning to share creative visions and work collectively is a crucial aspect of our visual arts program, promoting a supportive and collaborative artistic community.
Building Portfolios for Artistic Futures
Our older students work towards building a comprehensive art portfolio. A well-crafted portfolio is not only essential for academic pursuits but also serves as an asset for those considering careers in the visual arts.
At St Chris Senior School, we nurture aspiring artists, providing them with the tools and environment to flourish creatively. These portfolios are often used in UCAS interviews on application to university or Art College, but are also a great keepsake to showcase the level of work completed by our students
Recycled Fashion Show
One standout event in our calendar is the Recycled Fashion Show. Students channel their creativity to craft stunning fashion pieces using recycled materials. This annual spectacle not only showcases artistic innovation but also instils a sense of sustainability and resourcefulness among our students.
