Over St. John's CE Primary SchoolArt and Design
Art and Design Intent
At Over St John’s CE Primary School, Art and Design is shaped by our Christian vision inspired by Jesus’ words, “Let your light shine before others” (Matthew 5:16). Through art, pupils are given opportunities to express themselves creatively, develop confidence and discover their unique voice, recognising that creativity is a God‑given gift to be nurtured and shared.
We believe every child is created with dignity, imagination and the potential to create and communicate meaning. In a community affected by significant deprivation, the art curriculum plays a vital role in building confidence, curiosity and self‑belief, enabling all pupils — including those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged — to experience success and pride in their work.
Our Art and Design curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and skills‑focused. It develops pupils’ technical knowledge and understanding across drawing, painting, printmaking, collage and sculpture, while also encouraging personal expression and creative decision‑making. Sketchbooks are used as safe spaces for experimentation, reflection and growth, supporting resilience and risk‑taking as pupils refine ideas over time.
Art at Over St John’s nurtures spiritual development through opportunities for wonder, reflection and response. Pupils engage with artists, materials and techniques in ways that encourage thoughtful observation, emotional expression and deeper reflection on the world around them. Through creative exploration, pupils are invited to pause, notice beauty, express feelings and make meaning, helping them connect learning with their own experience and identity.
The curriculum is designed to inspire learning and curiosity, encouraging pupils to explore ideas, ask questions and see themselves as artists. Careful sequencing and explicit teaching ensure that pupils build knowledge and skills progressively, enabling them to talk confidently about their work and that of others, and understand the role of art in society.
Inclusive practice is central to our Art and Design curriculum. Adaptations, scaffolded teaching and a focus on process rather than outcome ensure that all pupils can participate with dignity and success. Children are encouraged to celebrate individuality, respect others’ ideas and work collaboratively, reflecting our Christian values of respect, community and care for one another.
Through Art and Design, pupils develop confidence, creativity and resilience, enabling them to flourish as learners and individuals. By valuing self‑expression, nurturing skill and encouraging reflection, the art curriculum supports children to grow in confidence and let their light shine within school and beyond.
Please click on the links below to access our current Art and Design Subject Map and the Art and Design Progression of Skills and Knowledge document.