Art and Photography – St. Joseph's Catholic High School

Art and Photography Key information

“Art should be something that liberates your soul, provokes the imagination and encourages people to go further” Keith Haring.

The study of Art and Photography is something which allows balance in a students life. In Art, there is no right or wrong, there is no test to pass and every child has the ability to find something they like and something they succeed at.

Alongside the teaching of technical skills and practice, the study of Contemporary and historical Artists and the journey of the creative process, students are also encouraged and taught to think differently. The Art department is a positive safe place where students feel able to be themselves and express themselves.

Students are encouraged to experiment and they are allowed to make mistakes. Their sketchbooks become pieces of Art in their own right. The study of Art at Key stage 3 is enjoyable, interesting and allows them to make good progress. Students who opt to continue with their Artistic journey at key stage 4 are given every opportunity to start expressing their ideas and beliefs, leading to final outcomes which they are proud of and can be kept for ever. This is alongside the achievement of high level GCSE grades in both Art and Photography.

The department consists of 2 teaching staff, and 1 technician.

Gemma Davies, BA (hons) Fine Art, PGCE,

26 years teaching experience.

Senior Lead, Head of Creative Arts and Technologies, Subject Lead for Art and Photography, teacher of Art and Photography

Rachel Callion BA (hons) Textiles, PGCE.

18 years teaching experience, Teacher of Art and Photography.

Maddie Mitchell

Senior Technician.

At KS4 we follow the AQA Art, Craft and Design or Photography course.

During Key stage 3 students will develop their skills in Drawing and Painting, printmaking, photography, ceramic, sculpture and mixed media. They will study a range of different Artists and learn how to analyse and understand how they might influence their own work. They will learn about the practice of Art and will build up their transferable skills.

Students can continue to study Art and Photography at 6th form or college then on to degree level. These subjects can help with a myriad of careers including the Artistic, Media, creative and beauty industries.

To contact us please email: Gemma.davies@sjchs.uk