Visual Arts

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Our Team

HOL: Laura Jackson

Teaching staff and specialties: Laura Jackson (Art, Design and Photography) Karamea Te Whaiti-Ward (Art)

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ASPIRE - Our Purpose

At William Colenso College the Art Department supports students to develop decision making skills through critical analysis of their work to further develop their ideas. This creates confidence and capability not just in the arts, but in all areas of life. We encourage students to aim high, take risks and see themselves as successful learners who belong and can achieve excellence.

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ACT - Teaching, Learning & Support

What students learn / How students learn

• Art allows students to have an understanding of the methods and ideas which underlie painting, design and photography practice and extend these ideas in the development of individual thinking and decision making.
• Students express themselves through drawing, painting, print-making, photography and Design.

Assessment & feedback

• Learning is assessed through the development of a body of work in Years 11, 12 and 13 which is assessed internally and externally to gain NCEA credits. In the junior school students are assessed using progressions set against the curriculum.
• Student feedback is ongoing and individual as students develop their work.

Support & extension

• Students are able to extend themselves through entering the Scholarship class in Level 3.
• Junior learning builds confidence and skills
• Senior courses offer clear pathways and choice
• Assessment supports growth and next steps

Learning is inclusive and challenging, allowing students to achieve their potential

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ACHIEVE – Pathways & Outcomes

• Senior course options and qualifications
• Skills students develop
• Pathways beyond school
• Opportunities beyond the classroom

Subject Selection Booklet  - pages 7 & 8

Learning in the Art Department opens pathways beyond school. Students develop skills that prepare them for further study, work, and life — including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and resilience.
Opportunities to exhibit in regional and national exhibitions such as Ringa Toi in Wellington and the Year 12 Art Exhibition in Hawke’s Bay provides exposure for their work and increases their confidence.

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Working in Partnership

We value strong partnerships with whānau. Families can support learning by encouraging regular attendance, engagement with feedback, and open communication with teachers.