The Canons believes that art is an essential part of every child’s education. Throughout each year group, students study key artists and designers, exploring, evaluating, and analysing a diverse range of works. They are encouraged to develop their practical skills and vocabulary through structured, modelled lessons and regular use of sketchbooks, which serve as tools for experimentation and reflection. The knowledge and inspiration drawn from these artists then inform their creative process, allowing students to apply new techniques and ideas when producing a final piece. This approach ensures that students not only improve their artistic skills but also gain a deeper understanding of the broader cultural and historical context of art and build on their cultural capital.

Children’s artwork is celebrated and showcased within the classroom, where students are encouraged to share their creations and receive constructive feedback from both staff and peers. This process highlights the skills and vocabulary they have developed throughout the unit, fostering a sense of pride in their progress.

Whenever possible, artwork is displayed throughout the school—both in classrooms and corridors—as well as featured in special art exhibitions open to parents.

Additionally, many students have had their work exhibited at prestigious local venues such as the Nuneaton Museum and Art Gallery and The Atkins Building in Hinckley as part of The Festival of Arts competition. Many students have also received awards for their artwork, attending formal presentation ceremonies judged by practising local artists, with the Mayor in attendance.

Earlier this year, children attending our after-school art club, led by local artist Anthony Greentree, had the exciting opportunity to see their artwork featured in a bamboo sculpture he created for the Imagine Bamboo exhibition at Riversley Park. This unique experience allowed students to see how their creations were incorporated into a larger, collaborative piece, fostering a deeper connection to the artistic process. This not only recognises their artistic achievements but also reinforces the connection between the school and the wider community.

Wherever possible, we strive to provide children with a wide range of additional art experiences both in and out of school. These opportunities, including art-focused weeks, trips, and visits from practicing artists, ensure that students are exposed to a broad spectrum of artistic mediums throughout their time at our school.

Previous examples of these enriching experiences include: participating in a willow workshop to help create a large willow cross sculpture; designing and collaborating with a mosaic artist to produce a school mosaic; visiting Sanctuary, an immersive temple exhibition at Bedworth Miners Welfare Park; working with a textile artist to create fabric portraits; creating pottery pieces, such as poppies, with visiting ceramicists; and collaborating on mural projects. These activities not only enhance the children's artistic skills but also deepen their understanding of different artistic practices and cultural contexts.

In the summer term, as part of week focusing on art, successful sculptor Anthony James visited the school to introduce students to the art of junk modelling. He held an engaging assembly for both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, where he shared his expertise and inspiration. Following the assembly, Year 1 and 2 students worked alongside him to design and create their own monster sculptures. Meanwhile, Key Stage 2 students participated in a home-based competition to design their own monsters, further fostering creativity and hands-on learning.

In September, Year 6 students visited Coventry Cathedral and The Herbert Art Gallery to experience first-hand the works of renowned artist and designer John Piper. They had the opportunity to engage with the dramatic presence of his abstract Baptistry Window and explore the intricate details of his oil painting of the Cathedral, gaining a deeper appreciation for his artistic vision.

Earlier this month, some students were invited to the local library to watch a performance of ‘The Bear Who Went to War’ by Alan Pollock. In preparation for the play, a textile artist visited the school and worked with the students to design and create prints that would be used on the set. This collaboration not only allowed the children to contribute to a live theatre production but also gave them hands-on experience in textile design and an appreciation for how art can enhance storytelling in performance.