Gifted and Talented in Art and Design What is meant by Gifted and Talented? By ‘Gifted’ students we mean those who have abilities in a range of subjects in the statutory school curriculum. By ‘Talented’ students we mean those who have abilities in one specific subject in the curriculum.

Pupils with talent in art and design are likely to:Pupils with talent in art and design are likely to: Think and express themselves in creative, original waysThink and express themselves in creative, original ways They often want to follow a different path to other students, challenge the tasks given or extend the brief in seemingly unrelated directions. Have a strong desire to create in visual formHave a strong desire to create in visual form They are driven by ideas and solve problems relating to concepts and issues; they explore ways to depict ideas, emotions, feelings and meanings, they take risks without knowing what the outcome will be; they change ideas to take into account new influences or outcomes. Show a passionate interest in the world of art and designShow a passionate interest in the world of art and design They are often interested in a specific culture, particular art form, contemporary culture or youth culture. Use materials, tools and techniques skilfully and learn new approaches easily They are keen to extend their technical abilities and sometimes get frustrated when other skills do not develop.

Initiate ideas and define problemsInitiate ideas and define problems They explore ideas, problems and sources independently and collaboratively, with a sense of purpose and meaning. Critically evaluate visual work and other informationCritically evaluate visual work and other information They engage critically with the work of artists and designers which may positively influence their own creative endeavours. Exploit the characteristics of materials and processesExploit the characteristics of materials and processes They use materials and processes in creative, practical and inventive ways; they explore alternatives and respond to new possibilities and meanings. Understand that ideas and meanings in their own and others’ work can be interpreted in different ways They use their knowledge and understanding to extend their own thinking and realise their intentions; they communicate original ideas, insights and views.

What we do as a Faculty of Art and Design We provide opportunities in this curriculum area through students being encouraged to work both within the class and after school Art rooms are always open to students at break and lunchtimes for them to develop their skills, using a variety of media, technical procedures and materials. They may also use the art studios after school in conjunction with art staff. The department enables students who have been identified as being on the G&T art and design register to attend Gifted and Talented Days where they are able to use mediums and techniques/processes over a sustained amount of time, where they can develop their ideas more fully than during their curriculum time. These are listed on the school calendar. A Gifted and Talented art club to start after October half term by invitation only. Specific clubs such as robotics for students with aptitudes in this area (design and technology). Provide opportunities as they arise, such as specific days, talks and sessions run by other institutions to those on the Gifted and Talented in Art and Design list.

What can you do as a parent/carer to support your Gifted and Talented child in Art and Design? Show an interest in your child’s art and design studies at school. Ask them about their home learning tasks, ask to see their work, provide relevant resources and space so that your child can do their work creatively. Encourage them to enter art and design competitions run at the school and also outside the school environment, as this will give them extra opportunities to develop their interest and skills in the subject. Keep up to date with events run around the county and in London. The list of useful websites and links will be given at the end of this sessions for you to use as you see fit to extend your Gifted and Talented child further. Encourage your child to observe the world around them and ask them how art has influenced their environment and how natural environments have provided visual stimuli for designers, artists and architects. Point out artistic pieces on days out, and encourage them to take a sketchbook or camera around with them to document what they have seen. Go on visits to museums and galleries. This is invaluable with regards to developing skills such as appreciation, observation and understanding how artists and designers have used materials, mediums and techniques to create the visual pieces. A list of museums and galleries is included in the hand out for parents and carers. Finally, encourage your child to see the purpose of art and design and how it can encompass all subjects, issues, and the world around us. Project a positive stance with regards to the arts and allow your child to relish in the unlimited possibilities it provides as a subject.

Miss L Wood Subject Leader for Art and Design