Art and Design lessons provide the time for children to develop their abilities, to appreciate the visual world and to respond in a personal and creative way. We believe creativity is vital for a full education and that Art and Design should form a strong foundation for later learning, as well as a lasting enthusiasm for the subject. 

A walk round our school will soon demonstrate the importance of Art and Design to our children and our school environment. Artwork is not confined to the new Art Studio, it spills out into every area of school life, along with the children’s enthusiasm for this subject. 

Projects are devised to make the most of the learning process and to introduce children to as many working practices and opportunities as possible. We work with a wide range of media in drawing and painting. We use mechanisms, tools and construction techniques to design and make. We build and sculpt using clay, wood, wire and card. We approach textiles through batik, felt and weaving. We use digital cameras for photography sessions, I.C.T.  and to record work in progress.
 
Children at St Ives look beyond the classroom to the wider world of Art in many ways. There are opportunities to visit exhibitions both locally and in the main London galleries. Reference is made to relevant artists, crafts people and architects in most projects. Visiting workshops ensure a cultural diversity and children see historical and contemporary art through displays, books and digital media.

Most importantly the work in the Art Room is continuously evolving and there is the flexibility to explore new directions and to respond to ideas. We aim to teach children how to recognise these opportunities for themselves and to encourage independence and a willingness to discuss their ideas.