Ash moved their art learning outdoors, using the natural environment as inspiration while working with clay. The woodland setting, filled with leaves, trees, and varied textures, sparked creativity and encouraged curiosity throughout the activities.
In the first session, pupils were introduced to clay and given time to explore how it feels and behaves. They experimented with shaping and manipulating the material, building confidence in using it.
They practised a range of fundamental techniques, including:
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Rolling clay into spheres and coils
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Pinching and pressing to transform shapes
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Flattening clay to make simple forms
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Exploring a variety of textures
Children collected natural resources such as sticks, leaves, and bark to press into the clay, creating patterns and imprints. This helped them see how different tools and materials can be used to add detail and interest to artwork.
In the following session, pupils applied their developing skills to create pinch pots. They began by forming a ball of clay, then used their thumbs to press into the centre, gradually shaping it into a hollow form. By carefully pinching and turning the clay, they created small pots.
Through this process, pupils focused on:
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Applying the right amount of pressure
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Shaping and smoothing the clay
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Adding decorative details
Some pupils enhanced their pots with patterns using natural materials, while others concentrated on refining the overall shape and finish.
These sessions also linked to our Skills Builder goals. Pupils showed creativity by trying out different ideas, resilience by persevering when challenges arose, and collaboration by sharing resources and supporting each other.
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