Year 7
Building Creative Foundations
Students begin their artistic journey with two core projects designed to establish essential skills and ignite their passion for visual arts. This foundational year focuses on developing confidence with materials while introducing students to the rich heritage of artistic movements and techniques.
The Painting Workshop introduces students to the fundamental principles of color theory, teaching them how to mix and apply paint with precision and purpose. Through hands-on exploration of textural applications and brushwork techniques, students develop their understanding of how color and texture work together to create compelling visual narratives. This project provides valuable exposure to influential movements such as Impressionism and Pop Art, allowing students to understand how historical context shapes artistic expression and encouraging them to find their own creative voice.
Our Knots and Weaves project develops crucial observational drawing skills through detailed study of the innovative work of contemporary artists Michael Brennand-Wood and Nigel Morris. Students learn to see and interpret complex patterns, textures, and forms, translating their observations into large-scale pastel compositions that demonstrate both technical skill and personal interpretation. This project builds confidence in mark-making while introducing students to the rich tradition of textile arts and contemporary practice.
Year 8
Exploring New Dimensions
Building on the solid foundations established in Year 7, our Year 8 students are ready to explore more specialized techniques and begin their transition into three-dimensional thinking. This year emphasizes technical proficiency while encouraging creative experimentation and personal expression.
Students engage with either Silk Screen or Block Printing projects, where they research botanical themes and master traditional printmaking processes. Through careful study of plant forms and natural patterns, students develop an appreciation for the intricate beauty found in the natural world. They learn the precise techniques required for successful printmaking, from preparing screens and blocks to achieving consistent, high-quality prints. This project combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary approaches, ensuring students understand both historical context and modern applications.
The Paper Manipulation and Relief Work module marks an exciting transition as students begin to think three-dimensionally for the first time. Starting with accessible techniques such as origami, students gradually progress to more complex paper constructions before advancing to ceramic relief tiles. This carefully structured progression ensures students build confidence while developing spatial awareness and understanding of form. The module bridges the crucial gap between 2D and 3D art forms, preparing students for more advanced sculptural work in later years.
Year 9
Cultural Exploration and Advanced Techniques
Our Year 9 program represents a significant step forward in artistic maturity, embracing cultural diversity while introducing advanced artistic concepts and techniques. Students at this level are encouraged to develop their personal artistic voice while demonstrating technical excellence and cultural understanding.
The Day of the Dead project provides an immersive cultural experience that goes far beyond surface decoration. Students engage deeply with Mexican cultural traditions, understanding the significance and symbolism behind this important celebration while developing sophisticated clay-working skills. Through research, planning, and creation, students learn advanced sculptural techniques including modeling, texturing, and finishing. This project demonstrates our commitment to cultural diversity and global awareness, ensuring our students develop into well-rounded, culturally literate individuals who can engage respectfully with traditions from around the world.
The challenging Footwear project pushes students to explore mixed media approaches and complex compositional techniques. Working with grid methods and fragmented compositions inspired by the innovative work of contemporary artists Patrick Caulfield and Michael Craig Martin, students learn to break down complex forms and reconstruct them in new and exciting ways. This project develops critical thinking skills alongside artistic techniques, as students analyze, deconstruct, and reimagine familiar objects through an artistic lens.
Contact
The Thomas Adams School
Lowe Hill
Wem
Shropshire
SY4 5UB
Tel: +44 1939 237000