Arts residential course boosts Flintshire students’ GCSE studies

Argoed High School students created breathtaking sculptures and paintings during a weekend art and design course to prepare for their upcoming GCSEs.

Now, their stunning masterpieces are on display in the art room for all to see and be inspired by.

Thirty GCSE art students attended the course in Anglesey which aims to develop creative problem solving skills through presenting difficult concepts visually, making them easier to understand. 

It also gives students an opportunity to learn new methods and work with materials they might not otherwise be able to access. 

Although able to explore the beautiful grounds collecting images and artefacts to inspire their work, the students spent the majority of their time in workshops led by talented artists and educators who strive to ensure all learners reach their potential in each session. 

The objective for students was to complete a full project across the weekend which will be used as part of a full portfolio in their final coursework assessment.

Included in the incredible amount of work produced were rococo inspired clay candelabras, gilded cage hanging sculptures, palace structures, lace inspired textural paintings, wire and collage afternoon tea sets, and mixed media portraits. 

It is the fourth year that students from the school have benefited from the course which is run by Conway Centres, an organisation that provides a variety of learning experiences both indoor and outdoor at several locations. 

Faith Colclough, year 10, said: “I learnt a lot of new techniques, including blending backgrounds, and how to use a cutting knife to successfully cut out clean lines and shapes on my final piece.  It was a great weekend and I definitely feel more confident in my ability.”

Kayleigh Over, art and design teacher, accompanied the students. 

She said: “One of the aims of the trip is to raise attainment and our students worked incredibly hard and excelled themselves with beautiful, detailed outcomes.   

“Being able to observe the creative, intricate work of the artists leading the course is a fantastic way for students to engage with the subject and to stimulate and inspire new projects.’”

“They all made great progress during the intensive workshops, which were relaxed yet productive, challenging and supporting learners in equal measure.”

“Students would not have believed they could produce the outcomes that they did at the start of the weekend; they overcame their own doubts and learned new skills to help them achieve some outstanding results.”

“They were so proud and amazed at what they had achieved and continued to surprise themselves with their artistic ability throughout the weekend.”

“I am incredibly proud of how our students represented the Argoed, with many of the tutors on the course commenting upon their lovely manners and impressive work ethic.”

“Our young artists continue to surpass expectations and achieve brilliant results due to their hard work and dedication.”

“I hope the skills and confidence they have gained from the residential is something they can carry forward as they complete the GCSE course.”