Art

At St Hugh’s we aim to encourage the artist that is within each of us by fostering an enjoyment of the visual arts, developing the imagination and providing the skills necessary for pupils to express their ideas.

We experiment with as many different materials and processes as possible so that pupils are given every opportunity to develop their creativity and reach their potential.

PRE-PREP

Art and design is woven throughout the curriculum and reflects and supports the work being done in all subjects. Each activity aims to stimulate creativity and imagination. Sessions provide children with visual and sensory experiences and a unique way of understanding and responding to the world. The children use colour, form, texture, pattern and different materials and processes to express what they see, feel and think. They will learn about different artists in association with class topics and enjoy collaborative work in small groups and even as a whole class. The aim is to ensure that every child enjoys art and has a positive attitude, which in turn helps to develop their confidence.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

In Middle School, the children are immersed in art during their discrete lessons dedicated to the subject. Linking carefully to other areas of the curriculum and topic being studied, the children are introduced to a range of artists, techniques and materials whilst being encouraged to work creatively and imaginatively with the skills introduced in Pre-Prep. In addition to this, opportunities to work artistically during focused Art days and during Forest School sessions are built into the curriculum. Fostering a love of and interest in the visual arts is extremely important and enjoyed by all in Middle School.

UPPER SCHOOL

The Art Department is located in a purpose-built building where pupils are taught in two large studios with adjoining design suites and library. Here, a variety of teaching and learning styles are employed with the aim of familiarising each pupil with the elements of art: line, tone, colour, pattern, form and texture. Each pupil will experience a wide variety of processes including drawing, painting, printing, collage, textiles and 3D work.

In addition to timetabled lessons, there are lunchtime clubs and the art room is open to both boarders and day pupils during breaks and in the evenings. Opportunities are provided for pupils to work outside their timetable lessons with regular clubs, trips to galleries and exhibitions, workshops and visits from artists. 

There is an annual open evening for the creative arts and pupils regularly take part in both national and local art competitions. Recently we have exhibited in the Royal Academy and Ashmolean Museum as well as winning 'best in show' at the Prep Schools Art Exhibition.

Each year, pupils are encouraged to prepare for art scholarships to senior schools and we are delighted that so many pupils are successful.

We have a lively department where our children have fun, work with confidence and build a love of the subject that will remain with them throughout their lives.