Art Academy 2026 - William Morris (Upper Key Stage 2)

This unit has been fully revised for 2026
Sequence of Learning for Teachers
In this unit of work children take a journey into printmaking by studying the art and designs of William Morris. Children have the opportunity to develop their observational drawing skills and to add colour to designs using watercolour paints. Children consolidate their understanding of pattern by isolating and drawing motifs from William Morris designs. They apply their knowledge of pattern motifs when creating printing blocks based on the designs of William Morris. Using these print blocks, children create repeating patterns using block printing techniques and overlaying prints to create complex wallpaper patterns.
This knowledge, skills and understanding is delivered through the following convergent task sessions:
Session 1: William Morris and his Designs
Session 2: Pattern Motifs
Session 3: Designing Print Blocks
Session 4: Block Printmaking
Creative Outcome (Divergent task) – Handprinted Wallpaper
The unit of work completes with the creative outcome (divergent task) activity that can be delivered over two or more sessions. These sessions can also be used for children to complete activities from sessions 1-4. For the creative outcome children work collaboratively to create hand-printed wallpaper and provides them with opportunities to experiment with different repeating patterns, rotations and offsetting the blocks. They are introduced to overlapping and overprinting using print blocks to create a more intricate design. The creative outcome activity provides an opportunity for children to apply their knowledge, skills and understanding from previous sessions in this unit of work. Through the creative outcome children will develop their creativity and understanding of the creative process by combining their imagination with the knowledge they have acquired.

Each Unit of work consists of:
• Comprehensive medium-term planning that details the learning journey, resources, vocabulary development and links to online learning.
• Separate lesson presentations for each teaching session.
• Additional presentations linked to learning within the unit.
• Photocopiable resources to support teaching within the unit.
• Advice on challenge and support in art and design.
• Assessment statements: Keeping up with the curriculum.

In addition to the above, each unit also includes a downloadable primary progression map for art and design (curriculum pathway) and an extensive vocabulary list. Combining and sequencing Art Academy units of work allows schools to create a scheme of work for art and design from key stage 1 to the end of key stage 2.

Information about the Art Academy and to purchase further units of work visit: www.artacademy.store