Creativity celebrated at exhibition

This special exhibition celebrated the abundant creativity at Steyning Grammar School; the many visitors were able to see the work of some 500 students from various departments and enjoy looking at the range of styles and techniques on display.

A vast amount of exhibits were spread throughout the school, from the drama studio to the photography department, with many displays in between. These included the work of students who had recently completed GCSE, BTEC, AS and A level courses in art, animation, photography, film and media and technology.

Nick Wergan, Head teacher at Steyning Grammar School said: “This was a spectacular display of Steyning Grammar School student talent; I am so proud of them, and thanks are due to our fantastic staff who work so hard to nurture and develop this creativity. We aim to unlock the true potential of all our students, and this exhibition truly shows this aspiration in action. In a world where creativity has such great value, I am so optimistic for what our students can go on to achieve; their work is ambitious and thought-provoking. This is yet again one of the highlights of our school year.”

Claire Vilday, Faculty Leader for Creative and Performing Arts at Steyning Grammar School, commented: “This is my second year at Steyning Grammar School and I cannot emphasise how proud I am of the students and the teachers who support them. The work is highly imaginative, independent and showcases real skill and creativity. The exhibition showcases the achievements of students from all abilities and is a testament to their commitment and hard work.”

GCSE art students displayed their examination work entitled ‘Past, Present and/or Future’. The theme this year seemed to generate a lot of interest in change and movement, mixed media and expressive portraits. Students excelled themselves in painting in particular.

GCSE animation students showed their short animation films and a range of photographic outcomes. Students used a variety of different styles and genres including hand drawn, stop motion and live animation. Students from this course have had a good insight into the use of new media in art and design.

The growing number of art and photography sixth form students displayed examination work created in response to the theme ‘Transformation’ and ‘Truth, Fantasy, Fiction’. Students had to think carefully about how to avoid being literal or obvious with their interpretation of these themes. They worked independently to research and collate their own resources, developing exciting solutions in watercolour, acrylic, poster paint, ICT drawing programmes, dry point etching, graphite and textiles. They were supported by visits to a number of London Galleries; Saatchi, Tate Britain and Tate Modern. At the end of Year 12 they were also inspired by a residential trip to Barcelona.

As usual students worked hard to produce exemplary sketchbook work and final outcomes.

Many students will continue their Art education at local Foundation courses. Students have been successful in gaining places at Brighton, Bournemouth, Manchester School of Art and Leeds. Many students have offers at a range of prestigious universities, joining degree courses in Fine Art, Digital Photography, Architecture and Fashion.

Technology this year has seen students reach new heights, with our largest cohort of engineers completing the GCSE. Work produced using new technologies such as 3D printing and PLC programming have allowed students to really excel. In Resistant Materials the work produced has set new standards in achievement and allowed projects to be really diverse and innovative. Graphics, electronic products and food technology have also reported back on the quality and dedication of this year’s students.

Product design A Level students have really excelled themselves this year; their hard work has produced some truly outstanding practical outcomes and detailed coursework, designing a wide range of items from silver jewellery to a Malay beach hut. As usual students have successfully applied for a range of courses to further their studies, including art foundation, product design and architecture.

This year, for the first time, film and media students exhibited their hard work in a cinema style, showing short films ranging from the horror genre to action-thrillers and comedy, as well as a display of their print media work on DVD covers, posters and adverts.

It was wonderful to celebrate the achievement of students at the recent private view. Musical interludes, light refreshments and a summer evening provided a fabulous ambience for students and the local community to enjoy.

For more information on the courses available visit the curriculum section of our website www.sgs.uk.net