At Pownall Hall School, we believe that the Creative Arts—encompassing Art, Design, and Technology—play a crucial role in stimulating creativity and imagination. These subjects provide children with visual, tactile, and sensory experiences that offer a unique way to understand and respond to the world around them.
We are dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to explore, learn, and express themselves creatively. Our environment is designed to encourage children to develop their knowledge, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and communicate effectively. From Form 1, children embark on a specialised journey in Design and Technology, having already gained rich multi-sensory experiences with materials and crafts during their Early Years.
This comprehensive approach not only nurtures a love for the arts but also empowers children to think critically and innovate. By engaging in hands-on projects and expressive tasks, children cultivate essential skills that will serve them well in all areas of their education and beyond, making the Creative Arts an invaluable part of their development at Pownall.
I have been teaching at Pownall Hall since 2016 and feel very proud to work at such a fantastic school. I studied History of Art at Leeds University before embarking on a PGCE in Primary Education. I have a passion for Art and enjoy helping children to create unique pieces of work. In my spare time, I love being outdoors and going for walks with my husband and two little girls. I also enjoy taking part in sporting activities such as running and tennis.
Mrs. Belinda Cutts – BA (Hons), PGCE
I have been teaching Design and Technology at Pownall Hall since September 2018 after spending six years teaching D&T at secondary school level. I studied Architectural Design and Technology at University before going on to complete a PGCE at Leeds Metropolitan University. I am local to the Wilmslow area, and outside of school I am often found at the cricket club during the summer months or travelling the world visiting new places.
Mr. William Cross – BA (Hons), PGCE
1
Specialist art studio
5 -11yrs
Ages taught by Art/D&T specialists
2
On-site pottery kilns
24
Hours of specialist taught lessons per week across F1-F6
Children demonstrate their design and technology skills surprisingly early through trial and error, allowing them to understand the ‘made world’ around them. In the Early Years, engaging in design and technology enables children to make sense of their environment by creating, modifying, and designing objects, fostering a sense of agency and creativity.
Design is not merely about drawing; it encompasses thinking and problem-solving. For example, crafting a pizza or building a Lego structure relies heavily on imagination and the willingness to adapt ideas. Meanwhile, technology emphasizes hands-on creation, encouraging children to put their ideas into practice while understanding the possibilities and limitations of various materials. Experiencing the consequences of their decisions enables children to learn through exploration and creativity, making mistakes along the way.
Initially, much of children’s artwork in the lower Early Years is ‘process art’, prioritizing the experience of creating over the final product. As they progress, they begin to plan their creations, enhancing skills such as hand-eye coordination, language, focus, and confidence. With opportunities for multi-sensory experiences and exposure to various artworks, children develop a rich understanding of art and design.
In Pre-Prep, our specialist teaching in Art and Design, as well as Design and Technology, inspires children to explore and communicate their thoughts and feelings through various materials and processes. Children engage with colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form, and space, while also gaining insights into the works of artists, craftspeople, and designers. Our stunning school grounds and stimulating Art and Design Studio provide endless opportunities for discovery and imaginative inquiry.
Additionally, children develop their understanding of mechanical processes, such as springs, levers, and pulley wheels, which enhances their dexterity and ability to formulate design ideas. They are encouraged to explore different materials and make their own design choices aligned with our topics, fostering creativity and innovation. This integrated approach not only nurtures artistic expression but also strengthens problem-solving skills, allowing children to gain a deeper appreciation for both art and technology in their learning journey.
In Prep, pupils enhance their artistic abilities through the use of sketchbooks, fostering individual creativity in painting, printing, textiles, 3D art, drawing, and collage. They study various artists, architects, and designers, building essential skills with access to excellent resources, including a printing press and a kiln for ceramics. Art and Design play a vital role at Pownall, allowing children to explore materials and techniques, while nurturing a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
As pupils transition into Prep-School, we continue to develop their technical skills through practical, project-based learning. Children engage in diverse activities, such as card and paper techniques, textiles, electronic circuits, and pneumatics, broadening their understanding of design and technology. We emphasise safe tool use to prepare them for their future educational journey, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to tackle challenges creatively. This integrated approach to Art and Design, combined with hands-on technical learning, enriches our pupilts’ experiences and empowers them as innovative thinkers and creators.
