School Life
Discover academic excellence, personal development, and a vibrant community at Ernest Bevin Academy.
Art
The Art curriculum at Ernest Bevin Academy aims to engage, inspire and challenge students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art. As students progress, they think critically and develop a rigorous understanding of art and design, learning about how art both reflects and shapes our history and contributes to the culture and creativity of our nation.
Our approach balances the development of technical skills with creative expression, encouraging students to find their own artistic voice while understanding the rich traditions and diverse practices in the visual arts.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Year 7
Autumn Term
- Elements of Art: Line, shape, form, color, texture
- Drawing skills: Observation and mark-making
- Artist study: Henri Matisse and Fauvism
Spring Term
- Introduction to color theory
- Painting techniques: Watercolor and tempera
- Landscapes and perspective
Summer Term
- Introduction to 3D design and sculpture
- Cultural art: African patterns and motifs
- Collaborative project: School environment art
Year 8
Autumn Term
- Principles of composition and design
- Portraiture and facial proportions
- Artist study: Frida Kahlo and self-expression
Spring Term
- Printmaking: Relief and monoprinting
- Mixed media and collage
- Urban landscapes and architecture
Summer Term
- Introduction to digital art
- Cultural art: Japanese art and anime
- Public art and installation
Year 9
Autumn Term
- Advanced drawing: Figure drawing and movement
- Art movements: Expressionism and abstract art
- Artist study: Kandinsky and visual music
Spring Term
- Advanced painting techniques: Acrylic and oil
- Contemporary art and modern culture
- Identity and personal expression
Summer Term
- GCSE preparation: Developing a personal project
- Building a portfolio
- Exhibition skills: Curation and presentation
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
At Key Stage 4, students follow the AQA GCSE Art and Design specification. The course encourages students to develop their creative and imaginative abilities and to learn skills in a range of media, techniques, and processes. Students have the opportunity to specialize in one or more of the following endorsements:
Fine Art
Includes painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, lens-based media, and mixed media. Students explore ideas, materials, and techniques in response to a theme, developing their own style and approach.
Graphic Communication
Includes illustration, typography, branding, advertising, packaging design, and digital media. Students learn to communicate visually through design, developing technical and creative skills.
GCSE Assessment Components
Component 1: Portfolio (60%)
Students develop a portfolio that demonstrates a personal response to a theme or brief, showing exploration, research, acquisition of techniques, and critical and contextual understanding.
The portfolio must include both:
- A sustained project
- A selection of further work representing the course of study
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)
Students respond to a stimulus from an external assignment paper, developing a personal response over a preparatory period followed by 10 hours of supervised time to create a final outcome.
Assessment is based on four equally weighted criteria:
- Developing ideas through investigations
- Refining work by exploring ideas and selecting appropriate resources
- Recording ideas, observations, and insights
- Presenting a personal and meaningful response
Additional Art Opportunities
Art Club
Our weekly Art Club provides students with the opportunity to explore a range of techniques and media beyond the curriculum, with access to facilities and expert guidance from our Art department staff. Open to all year groups.
Annual Exhibition
Each summer, we showcase the work of our GCSE Art students alongside selected KS3 work in our Annual Exhibition. This celebratory event is open to parents, staff, and the wider community, allowing students to showcase their achievements.
Gallery and Museum Visits
Regular visits to local and national galleries and museums enhance students' understanding of art history and contemporary practice. Recent trips have included the Tate Modern, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Design Museum.
Competitions and External Projects
Students have opportunities to participate in local and national art competitions, community projects, and collaborations with professional artists and designers.
How Parents Can Help
- Encourage creative activities at home and provide basic art materials
- Visit galleries, museums, and exhibitions together
- Discuss artworks, designs, and visual culture in everyday life
- Support GCSE students with time management for portfolio work
- Provide a space at home for art-making and keeping sketchbooks
- Look for arts events and workshops in the local community
- Recognize that art involves process and development, not just finished outcomes
Useful Resources
Recommended Resources
- GCSE Art and Design Handbook (Download PDF)
- Art Materials List (Download PDF)
- London Gallery Guide (Download PDF)
- Artist Research Template (Download PDF)