Visual Arts places great value on the development of students’ intellectual and practical autonomy, reflective action, critical judgement and understanding of art in artmaking and in critical and historical studies of art. Visual Arts plays an important role in the social, cultural and spiritual lives of students. It offers a wide range of opportunities for students to develop their own interests, to be self-motivated and active learners who can take responsibility for and continue their own learning in school and post-school settings.
– NSW Visual Arts Syllabus
At Killarney Heights High School all students in Years 7 and 8 experience Visual Arts as part of the curriculum. Students in years 9 to 12 may choose the course as one of their electives.
Visual Arts education develops creativity, one of the top five skills employers prize for the 21st century. The Visual Arts foster higher levels of thinking that carry over to learning in other academic subjects as well as to life outside of school. Through Visual Arts, students learn to observe, interpret, see different perspectives, analyse, and synthesise.
At Killarney Heights High School our passionate, and dedicated Visual Arts teachers strive to provide students with the best possible learning experience. The school has studio style art spaces which include printing presses, a large range of digital photography equipment, and a well-equipped ceramics room. Students are presented with opportunities to explore a myriad of artmaking methods, including, but not limited to: drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, photography, and sculpture.
Engaging and rigorous programs have been designed to give students the best possible experience in Visual Arts. The syllabus provided Conceptual Framework and The Frames are used to support students in their ability to understand and write about art and artist practice. All artmaking exercises are linked to key artists and artistic movements. Students develop their writing skills through reflection, analysis, presenting their understanding, and establishing a point of view. Through learning about art history and contemporary art students create well informed artworks.