The Department aims to create an environment in which pupils gain a sense of achievement and are encouraged to become involved in the cultural life of both school and community. We have just moved in to specialist new spacious accommodation.

The Department has a tradition of underpinning all practical work with a critical understanding of both European and World Art. We organise workshops with professionals and at art galleries and museums. Sixth Form trips are organised to London, Liverpool, Paris, Amsterdam, Venice, Florence, Barcelona and New York and we run a Year 10 Arts residential trip to London. We hold a Key Stage 3 exhibition bi-annually where every student has a piece of Art on display.

The Art courses are structured to develop pupils' understanding of the language of Art and Design through a range of media such as printmaking, painting and ceramics. We stress the importance of homework as a means whereby pupils may express their ideas and practise skills. A lot of students can get involved in events such as the Arts Festival or African Arts event organised for Year 8 pupils. Examination results at GCSE, A/S and A Level are well above the national average. Many A Level students progress either to a Foundation Course in Art or to University courses in History of Art or Combined Arts.