At Ryvers School we provide a positive, caring environment, that ensures every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are committed to providing all children with learning opportunities to engage in Art and Design.  We believe that every child within our school should have full access to Art and Design as laid down in the National Curriculum regardless of age, gender or ability. We seek to ensure that our teaching reflects the current guidance to schools, which emphasises the particular importance of designing and making. 

Why are Art and D.T. important?

Art counts, that's why! The visual arts offer children a whole new perspective. Art is more than pretty pictures. The visual arts will teach your children to think outside of the box, to become problem solvers. Not every child will grow up to be an artist, of course! But, every child can be taught to appreciate the beauty around them every single day. 

Art and Design Technology (D.T.) play a crucial role in primary school education, offering numerous benefits for childrens' holistic development:

1. Creative Expression

• Art provides a platform for children to express their emotions, ideas, and imagination visually, fostering self-awareness and individuality.
• D.T. encourages creativity through problem-solving and innovative thinking as children design and create functional items, for example, threading in Nursery and Reception, building upon those skills in sewing, as they move further up the school. 

2. Skill Development

• Fine Motor Skills: Activities like drawing, cutting, and crafting improve hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
• Critical Thinking: D.T. challenges students to analyse problems and devise practical solutions, through exploration of products. 
• Collaboration: Both subjects often involve group projects, teaching co-operation, one of our Ryvers Values, and communication.

3. Cognitive Growth

• Art enhances visual-spatial skills, supporting in subjects like mathematics.
• D.T. integrates knowledge from science, technology, and engineering, helping students connect concepts across the whole curriculum.

4. Emotional and Social Benefits

• Engaging in creative projects boosts confidence and resilience as children see their ideas come to life.
• Collaborative work in D.T. fosters cooperation, empathy, and respect for diverse perspectives, especially when learning about our continents of the world.

5. Cultural and Aesthetic Awareness

• Art introduces children to various cultures and historical contexts, broadening their understanding of the world.
• D.T. teaches appreciation for design in everyday life and the importance of functionality and aesthetics.

6. Preparation for Future Learning

• Both subjects lay the foundation for future interests in the arts, engineering, and technology, sparking potential career aspirations.
• They nurture lifelong skills like creativity, adaptability, and innovation.

By incorporating Art and D.T. into the curriculum, we endeavour to promote a balanced education that addresses intellectual, emotional, and practical aspects of a child's development.