The aim of the Key Stage 3 course is to improve students’ visual literacy through exposure to key art works from different cultures and experimentation with a wide variety of art processes and materials. There are 3 themes across Key Stage 3, self and experiences, natural, made objects and materials and environments. In year 7 students are given a basic Art Foundation Course with a beach trip to inspire and to create artwork from direct observation. Year 8 builds on these skills, developing 3D materials using modroc, papier-mâché and textile processes. In Year 9 students focus on a more individual program exploring personal themes and events.  They investigate their local environment and the changes taking place in Dubai whilst using a range of 2D and 3D media including intaglio printmaking, clay and textile materials. 

Assessment
In line with the latest pedagogy the Art Department uses assessment to guide and aid students in becoming independent learners. Allowing students to take an active part in how they learn as individuals. Peer assessment, group assessment, learning to learn and accelerated learning is an integral part of all lessons encouraging students to take charge of their own development, reflect and set goals and targets for themselves.

ADT
Students also receive a lesson of ADT / Graphics per week, delivered by either a design and Technology or Art and Design teacher. The ADT course at JESS aims to contribute to the school curriculum by offering a series of Graphics units which complements and supports the work currently completed in Art and Design and Design and Technology. The course develops students’ manipulation and use of several Bitmap and Vector software e.g. Adobe PhotoShop, Illustrator, 2D design and 3D Pro Desktop. This course will give students the option of considering Graphic
Products at KS4. KS3 exemplar projects include:

• A CD cover to promote a chosen artist or band
• A design project resulting in a new bottle label for a drinks company
• A promotional flyer to advertise a company, product or event