Art | The Royal Belfast Academical Institution

Department

Art

Level

KS3, KS4, KS5

Head of Department

Mrs J Martin

Members of Dept

Mr C McMurtry (Part-Time Technician), Mr P Shepherd, Mrs C Carter

Gallery

Why study Art?

The Art & Design Department at RBAI will provide an effective learning environment that is welcoming and stimulating and that offers a wide range of activities and experiences. It strives to contribute to the cultural, creative, moral, social, intellectual, and emotional development of its pupils and to celebrate success as well as personal achievement. Pupils are valued as individuals and are encouraged to achieve their personal best whatever their ability.

Pupil work is celebrated within the department and wider school community and aims to encompass a range of age groups, abilities and processes / materials and is, where appropriate, referred to as exemplar material.

The department exemplifies strong teamwork and working in partnership with both pupils and parents. Emphasis is placed on the positive encouraging an atmosphere of openness and fairness.

Aims

To develop each pupil to his maximum artistic potential and to stimulate him to enjoy the attainment of artistic knowledge, understanding and skill.
To provide each pupil with the requisite knowledge and skills to enjoy examination success in Art and Design and for everyday life.
To provide and promote the conditions in which every pupil can develop as an individual and be supported emotionally.
To prepare pupils to become responsible and active members of society with an understanding of the relevance of Art and Design in today’s world and in a wider historical context.
To develop a close and mutually supportive relationship between home and school.

What Art offers?

Key Stage 3

A range of skills are taught enabling teaching and learning in each year to act as a progressive foundation across junior school for entry into GCSE.

Teaching focuses on 2D and 3D, fine art and design and incorporates contextual and historical references as well as opportunities for primary research and connections with the world of work.

Key Stage 4

Candidates begin by working on a portfolio which consolidates and develops skills from KS3. Work in the portfolio is thematic.

A set programme covers all aspects of the key requirements of the specification allowing for pupil independent development in at least 2 disciplines as well as developing their work into a final outcome.

Key Stage 5

Teaching at this level is like that at GCSE but candidates are required to engage in significant independent study both at home and in school.

Greater responsibility for the direction and development of the outcome is placed on the students with staff discussing and directing using a weekly tutorial format. Pupils are encouraged to be ambitious and to challenge their practical and critical thinking skills.

Exam Success

Candidates at GCSE, AS & A2 annually score more than NI and UK averages with numerous candidates scoring full marks in any given year.

Beyond the Classroom

Art Club is the vibrant heartbeat of our school’s creative community offering pupils a sanctuary where imagination and innovation flourishes. Whether our club members are a seasoned artist or someone who just enjoys doodling in the margins of their notebook, the Art Club welcomes everyone with open arms and open minds.
Beyond developing artistic skills, the Art Club fosters a sense of community and belonging. It’s a place where friendships are forged over shared interests and where every pupil’s voice and vision are celebrated. Art Club is the perfect place for pupils to release their creativity and be part of a dynamic artistic community at RBAI
The Art Club meets every Wednesday with Mrs Carter, engaging in group projects to enhance the aesthetic environment of the school as well as developing digital media and animation.
Senior Coursework Club meets every Monday.