Intent 

At St Joseph’s Infant School, we aim to develop artist in every child, ensuring that all children leave an art lesson proud of themselves and with the creations they are working on.  Through high‑quality resources, meaningful conversation, and clear expectations, we promote a growth mindset, developing resilience, independence, and determination in producing artwork. Children are supported to try their best, make decisions, adapt their ideas, and persevere through challenges with caring peers around them. We create a safe, happy and nurturing environment where children learn to collaborate effectively, supporting one another through group work, shared projects and opportunities to appreciate each other's creations—for example through class or school art exhibitions. We foster character development and wellbeing by teaching children how art can support emotional expression, calm, focus, and self-confidence. Through creativity, collaboration, and reflection, children begin to explore strategies that support positive mental health. 

Implementation 

Using our progression document, Art is taught in half‑term blocks that build skills and confidence over time. Teachers use the Kapow scheme to guide learning and adapting lessons to meet the needs of their class. Adults model techniques clearly and promote a strong ‘can‑do’ mindset, so every child feels like an artist and is encouraged to try new media, explore ideas and build on prior knowledge. We enrich our curriculum by inviting artists and illustrators to share their work and inspire children with real‑world creative possibilities. Children also learn about a range of well‑known artists, including those connected to our local area. Art is delivered through practical class lessons and whole‑school enrichment days, giving children opportunities to collaborate, experiment and celebrate their creativity together. 

Impact 

The children will learn to listen carefully to one another as they evaluate their work, discussing what went well and what they found challenging. They will confidently share their choices and opinions while showing respect for the ideas of others. Children will also have opportunities to hear from artists and illustrators, learning about their inspirations, creative journeys and the paths that led them into the world of art. These experiences help children recognise what they can achieve now and inspire them to imagine the creative possibilities available to them in the future.