Art & Design

The Art and Design Department provides distinct opportunities for nurturing and developing pupils’ personal creativity and aesthetic judgement, and the study of the subject also contributes to personal and social development. Critical skills are also developed when evaluating pupils’ own work and that of contemporary artists/designers.

In addition, important transferable skills in knowledge, communication, problem solving, lateral thinking and the use of ICT are promoted and developed. Every effort is made to provide pupils with a relevant, meaningful and enriching experience which takes account of personal interests and choices.

Organisation

There are two full time, well-qualified teachers, one of whom is Head of Department.

They are both responsible for teaching Art and Design to all classes from Lower 3 to Upper 6.All classes are taught in the department’s two well-lit and spacious studios.

Resources

The department is equipped with facilities for printing, digital photography and media as well as textiles, costume design, stained glass, jewellery 3D model making, graphic design, drawing and painting.

Courses

Lower 3 to Upper 2 – 5-14 National Course

Upper 3 to Upper 4 – SQA Standard Grade Course

Upper 5 – N.Q. at Higher and Intermediate 2

Upper 6 – N.Q. at Advanced Higher

Upper School courses are recommended for students intending to pursue careers in architecture, graphic and gaming design, textiles/fashion, jewellery, product design, stage/cinema industry etc.

5-14 Curriculum

The 5-14 curriculum is followed from Lower 3 to Upper 2 and all pupils have art and design every week. This ensures excellent continuity and progression through the Levels A to F.

Homework drawing is an integral part of the course at Upper 1 and 2 stages. The work is assessed using the 5-14 Levels and helpful comments and advice for improvement are given when appropriate.

Great importance is placed on observing and recording from first hand sources. Pupils also gain experience of handling a wide range of media and techniques. The course aims are to develop skills in drawing, painting, design, ceramics and printmaking.

Standard Grade

In Upper 3 and 4 pupils who choose to further their study of the subject, follow a two-year course. This revolves around three areas, namely Design, Expressive and Critical Activity. We follow guidance from SQA and the majority of our pupils gain credit grades by the end of the course in Upper 4.

Skills covered include: textile and stained glass design, which are offered within a variety of themes/concepts. Traditional themes such as portraiture and still life are also explored.

Higher/Intermediate 2

All pupils follow a common course, again focusing on the study of Design and Expressive, this time along with Art and Design Studies. Topics available include graphic design, jewellery, textiles and stained glass design. Pupils are entered at the level according on their aptitude and ability.

Having said this, the vast majority of our pupils are entered at Higher level and again we can report that our results are something to be proud of. Of course, this does not happen without the co-operation and hard work of the pupil as well as the dedication and expertise of the teacher.

Advanced Higher

This is a course which seems to be popular with pupils who choose to develop their understanding and skills even further. Students can major in the area of their choice, i.e. Design, Expressive. Advanced Higher Art and Design provides an opportunity for the development of personalised and meaningful themes which relate to contemporary practice.

The completion of the above course, plus personal sketchbooks and other work, can create a folio suitable for Art College application. Advice and support is given, but at this stage significant independent study is expected.

Many of our students go on to study art, design and architecture at universities in the UK and abroad

Albyn School

Vigor et Juventas

Navigation

Upper School