Our Art department continues to go from strength to strength due to its strong teamwork and inspirational ethos. The department continues to develop as a cutting edge team at the forefront of Art and Design education and we are very proud to report that, last term, it has been judged as "Outstanding' by the LA Inspector (Local Authority).

Teachers strive to ensure our students gain experiences and have the freedom to achieve fantastic results in both Art and Photography, through elements of "risk taking' and fantasy, sometimes learning through chance. As a team of outstanding teachers, the aim is to challenge student's boundaries, open their eyes to areas beyond their sphere of experience, and to enhance their awareness and understanding of themselves and their abilities.

Director of Learning for Art, Miss Welch, is delighted with the result but insists that this could not have been achieved without the support of all staff at King James and, of course, our talented students.

In his report, the Durham County Council Specialist Subject Inspector made the following comments:

"The high levels of teacher competence and subject expertise that has resulted in outstanding achievement in art and design.'

"In all lessons observed, students were highly engaged, treated each other with respect and encouraged each other to do well. Students have an obvious respect for the art and design staff. They are compliant and eager to get on with their work.'

"The Director of Learning is an inspirational and enthusiastic leader who stays abreast of current practice in art and design.'