At The Deanery C of E Primary, we believe every child should Flourish Through Creativity. Our art curriculum inspires pupils to experiment boldly, think deeply, and develop wisdom through meaningful learning experiences. By exploring the work of diverse artists, designers and craftspeople from across the world—both contemporary and traditional—children learn to see the world through different lenses and shape their own artistic identities.

Through repeated practice in drawing, painting and sculpture, pupils use sketchbooks to observe, review, refine and grow. We enrich this process with purposeful oracy opportunities, encouraging children to talk about their ideas, explain their choices and respond thoughtfully to the artwork of others. Alongside this, we introduce ambitious art and design vocabulary, empowering pupils to discuss techniques, express opinions and develop confidence as creative communicators.

In EYFS, art is playful and imaginative. Children build dexterity, explore materials freely, enjoy mark-making and use their own ideas as inspiration for making. They learn to reflect on what they have seen and created, discovering how art brings meaning, beauty and joy to our lives.

Our curriculum reaches beyond the classroom. We celebrate strong links with our community, drawing on local artists, shared projects and cultural experiences to broaden children’s understanding of the world around them. Throughout, we weave in opportunities for spiritual reflection—encouraging awe, wonder, curiosity and a sense of connection as children appreciate creativity in themselves, in others and in the wider world.

Our organisational values guide every aspect of this journey. They shape how we work as a team, influence the learning we design, and reflect the nurturing ethos at the heart of AccessArt, the scheme we follow. These values show how creativity can truly flourish when it is supported, shared and celebrated.

We hope these values inspire you too—and help spark creativity, confidence and wisdom in yourself and those around you.