Art
A diverse range of skills and experiences
Pupils at Millfield Prep School are given a diverse range of experiences through which to develop an understanding of Art, and are encouraged to explore a range of skills and techniques, developing individual skills as well as those which encourage collaboration with others, improving their practical skills and extending their knowledge and experience of materials, processes and practices. This includes learning about photography, colour, collage, printing, ceramics, textiles, 3D design, model making and sculpture, which includes using clay. Pupils also get the chance to learn and develop their drawing and painting skills, with painting projects ranging from landscapes to self portraits. They also carry out observational drawings from objects, the figure, architecture in the locality, the natural environment in our beautiful school setting and on location at Weymouth and at Tintern Abbey in the Wye Valley. They are encouraged to work on a variety of scales, and large scale painting and sculpture are strong features of the department.
From Year 3 onwards, pupils begin to study and develop a knowledge and appreciation of art from different periods of history and from different cultures, which is extended over their time at the School. This includes traditional and more contemporary, European and Non-European artists. Past projects have included examining Australian Aboriginal, Native American, Islamic, Indian, African, Ancient Egyptian, Mexican and Russian Art.
Growing in confidence and in communication
Key skills that are learnt by pupils studying art are confidence and communication. By learning about artistic methods and then trying them and developing them, as well as by critically discussing art and learning to use the appropriate vocabulary, pupils are being given the opportunity to explore and communicate their own ideas, their likes and dislikes, expanding their creativity stimulating their imaginations and thus develop as a human being. By the end of Year 8 it is our aim that all students have the ability to communicate effectively and confidently in the language of Art.
Outstanding facilities and opportunities for all
Pupils get the opportunity to visit art galleries and Rural and Historical Museums in London and Cardiff. There is also an artist in residence who has produced sculptures for the school grounds as well as giving pupils the opportunity to experience a professional carving and printmaking studio. Other visitors to the school include designers, musicians and dancers who have offered workshops as a starting point to pupils’ work. The work of the department is also enhanced by good relationships with other areas of the school which have resulted in successful cross-curricular projects. Throughout the course pupils get the chance to develop their ICT skills and research skills. The school library is well stocked and the department has internet access in both studios. Art trips to European cities are arranged for artistically talented pupils.
Winston Churchill by JJ Daniel
Mono Print by Isabella Lunn
Still Life Drawing by Cicely Newton & Ellie Crispin