Head
of Department: M Harrington
From the word go, the Art & Design department
at St Thomas More School encourages all students to discover and learn
new skills that
will help them to interpret the world around them in a visual and exciting
way.
At Key Stage 3, prior knowledge from primary schools is developed and enhanced,
using a variety of techniques and materials, combined with an understanding
of the essential vocabulary of Art and Design. The study of the history
of art is integral at all stages and serves to broaden the students'
understanding of what they create.
The department
is staffed by teachers with a variety of specialist skills, ranging from
ceramics, textiles and fashion to painting, printmaking and design, all
of which can be experienced by the end of Year 9.
At Key Stage 4, the department offers the GCSE and Applied GCSE (Double Award)
courses, both of which encourage greater independence of thought and creativity.
Students are taught to develop their critical and analytical skills as well
as exploring more experimental practical work.
In the Sixth Form, those wishing to continue their studies in Art can choose
from vocational options (GNVQ Intermediate and VCE) or the AS course, leading
on to A2.
