Curriculum intent
Art and sesign at Retford Oaks Academy is a creative and expressive journey that encourages students to explore the world around them through visual language. We aim to develop confident, independent artists who are able to experiment, take risks and communicate their ideas with clarity and imagination.
Through a broad and engaging curriculum, students build strong foundations in the formal elements of art while exploring a diverse range of artists, cultures and movements. Alongside practical skills, students are encouraged to analyse, reflect and refine their work, developing resilience and a deeper understanding of the creative process.
Key stage 3: years 7–9
At key stage 3, students are introduced to a wide range of artistic techniques, materials and ideas. The focus is on building confidence, curiosity and core skills, while encouraging students to develop their own creative voice.
In year 7, students begin by exploring the formal elements of art, including line, tone, colour, texture and pattern. They apply these skills through projects inspired by artists, where they experiment with printmaking techniques, as well as through studies of cultural art, developing an understanding of cultural traditions and visual storytelling.
In year 8, students expand their knowledge through more experimental and conceptual work. They explore movements such as cubism, using mixed media to create layered and abstract outcomes. Projects encourage bold use of colour and pattern, while students also begin to respond more independently to a range of artists, building skills that link directly to GCSE expectations.
In year 9, students refine and apply their skills through more structured and analytical projects. They explore landscape art, combining practical work with written analysis, before developing their understanding of proportion and detail through portraiture. The final project introduces a GCSE-style approach, where students independently research artists, develop ideas and produce a final piece that brings together their learning.
Key stage 4: GCSE
At key stage 4, students can choose to specialise in either fine art or 3D design, allowing them to develop their skills in a direction that suits their interests and strengths.
Fine art encourages students to explore personal expression through a wide range of materials, techniques and processes. Students investigate artists and cultures, developing ideas through experimentation and refinement. The course builds creativity, independence and critical thinking, while also developing the ability to analyse and evaluate artistic work.
3D design focuses on problem-solving through design. Students work with a range of materials and processes to create functional and creative outcomes, using both traditional techniques and digital tools such as CAD. The course develops skills in design thinking, engineering and manufacturing, while encouraging students to consider ethical, environmental and technological factors in their work.
Across both pathways, students learn to work independently, manage their time effectively and respond creatively to challenges, preparing them for further study.
Key stage 5: A level
At A level, students build on their prior knowledge to develop a highly personal and independent body of work. They are encouraged to explore themes and techniques in depth, specialising in areas such as portraiture, landscape, abstraction, installation or experimental imagery.
Students work across a range of media, refining their technical skills while developing a strong conceptual approach. The course requires a sustained and proactive commitment, with students meeting all assessment objectives through exploration, experimentation, recording and final outcomes.
Enrichment opportunities, including workshops with professional artists and visits to galleries and cultural destinations, further enhance students’ understanding and experience of the creative industries.
Skills and personal development
Through art and design, students develop a wide range of transferable skills that support both academic and personal growth. These include:
- creativity and imagination
- critical thinking and analysis
- problem-solving and resilience
- independence and organisation
- confidence in expressing ideas
Students learn that creativity involves risk-taking, reflection and perseverance, and that “mistakes” are often an essential part of the artistic process.
Enrichment opportunities
Students are given opportunities to extend their learning beyond the classroom through a range of enrichment activities. These may include workshops with visiting artists, trips to galleries and exhibitions, and participation in creative clubs and projects within the academy.
