Art is a vehicle that conveys a multi-cultural world, without barriers or prejudice, contributing to an unbiased learning experience.
The Art Department aims to provide pupils with an environment that encourages pupils to express their ideas and insights of the world around them, increasing confidence and self-awareness. Whilst each subject maintains its own curriculum identity, the sharing of knowledge, skills, expertise and resources is enabling the provision of a unique educational experience for Northgate pupils. Central to this experience is the development of ‘creativity’ both as a means of expression and as a fundamental ingredient of innovation.
art curriculum map
art KS3 course calendar
art GCSE course calendar
year 7 knowledge organiser
year 8 knowledge organiser
year 9 knowledge organiser
year 10 knowledge organiser
year 11 knowledge organiser
Exhibitions
Working Independently
Below are a number of links to resources available to support independent learning:
Assessment in Art & Design
KS3 students use self-assessment descriptors (KPI’s) to assess their own learning and teachers reinforce this on how to improve their work with regular feedback. Lessons include peer assessment and work is regularly displayed to celebrate success.
GCSE students are rigorously monitored and progress checked. Sketchbooks are regularly assessed and feedback is given both verbally and on post it notes within sketchbooks. Students are encouraged to refine and develop work as it progresses in order for all students to reach or exceed their full potential. There is an exhibition of work at the end of every Art & Design GCSE course to give parents and staff the opportunity to celebrate and commend the efforts and talents of the students.
Personal Development and Cultural Capital in Art & Design
The Design Department is committed to extending and enriching all pupils’ experiences within the broad field of ‘design’. In addition to the regular lunchtime and after-school clubs, we have numerous extra-curricular events throughout the year. Practising artists, designers and museums are drawn upon to run workshops and activity days, and upper school pupils broaden their understanding of the world of design through a variety of visits.
Who Teaches Art & Design
Head of Department: Mrs. M. Mottley, B.A. (Hons), P.G.C.E.
Email: mmottley@ng6.unity-ed.uk
Mrs Mottley studied at Middlesex University where she received a BA Hons in Fine Art and completed her PGCE . Mrs Mottley is very passionate about Art and has showcased her art at a number of exhibitions, including one held at Blickling Hall. She has also run a variety of art workshops for primary schools and community groups. Creativity is one of Mrs. Mottley’s life long passions and she always hopes to inspire others with her enthusiasm for the subject. This is one of the main reasons she became an Art teacher many years ago in London and is now the Head of Faculty in our own Design Faculty at Northgate.
Miss. T. Douglas, B.A. (Hons), P.G.C.E.
Email: tdouglas@ng6.unity-ed.uk
Miss Douglas formerly worked as an Art & Design technician at Northgate in 2015. Inspired by the Northgate community, she was driven to persue a career in Art & Design and specialised in sustainable furniture rejuvenation for 7 years. She gained her QTS & PGCE in Design Technology through Cambridge Teaching Schools Network, and having worked in various education settings for over 10 years, she continues to impart her design knowledge and enthusiasm for creative hive minds.
Mrs. D. Nimmock.
Email: dnimmock@ng6.unity-ed.uk
Mrs Nimmock has worked at Northgate since 2005 where she has very much enjoyed her time. She is passionate about Textiles and thoroughly enjoys teaching it to both KS3 & KS4. As well as time in the classroom, Mrs Nimmock enjoys taking part in visits both locally and further afield.
Miss. S. Peach
Email: speach@ng6.unity-ed.uk
Miss Peach graduated with a BA Hons in Fine Art at Norwich University of the Arts and completed her QTS at the Norfolk Teacher Training Centre. Miss Peach has exhibited at galleries in Norwich and has also exhibited at the John Innes Centre in 2016
Mrs. L. Wright, BA (Hons)
Email: lwright@ng6.unity-ed.uk
Mrs Wright’s passion for all areas of the Visual Arts is both boundless and inspiring. With a strong background in the commercial photographic industry—working both as an employee and self-employed—alongside a First Class Honours degree in Art-Based Photography, she is exceptionally well placed to teach and support curriculum progression from KS3 through to KS5. While photography is her specialism, Mrs Wright is dedicated to teaching across the full range of Visual Arts, inspiring students to develop their creativity and confidence at every stage.
Miss J. Gardner, BA (Hons), QTS
Mrs N. Buckley
Email: jgardner@ng6.unity-ed.uk
Mrs. Buckley is an experienced educator with over ten years in mainstream and specialist settings. She holds a PGCE from Coventry University. Prior to working at Northgate, Mrs Buckley worked at Wymondham College where she taught inclusive, hands-on lessons across Key Stages 3 and 4 in Design Technology and Food & Nutrition. Previously, she was Head of Forest School at Langley Prep at Taverham Hall, designing and leading outdoor education sessions that promoted environmental awareness, teamwork, and personal growth. Her background also includes roles as a Learning Support Assistant and Early Years Practitioner, supporting pupils with SEND, EAL, and behavioural needs.