Mission Statement  

At Kirkcaldy High School Art & Design, we strive to inspire every student to express their creativity and develop their artistic voice, guided by our values of Respect, Ambition, and Community. We commit to nurturing skills that extend beyond technique — fostering emotional wellbeing, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Through high expectations, supportive relationships, and shared success, we aim to ensure each young person can explore, experiment, and excel, unlocking their potential and contributing positively to the wider school community. 

BGE Art & Design at Kirkcaldy High School 

Our BGE Art & Design programme (S1–S3) builds creativity, confidence and technical skill through expressive and design projects. Pupils explore drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital media while learning to respond to briefs, develop ideas and critically evaluate their work. Rooted in our school values of Respect, Ambition and Community, the programme encourages personal expression, cultural awareness and collaboration, preparing learners for senior courses and future pathways in the creative industries. 

Overview of BGE Learning Programmes 

S1 Learning Programmes: 

• Tone- Still Life 
• Colour & Pattern – 2D design 
• Line- Sculpture 

S2 Learning Programmes: 

• Texture – Landscape 
• Shape -Travel Poster Design 
• Form – Still Life/Clay 
• Visual Elements/ Portraiture 

SQA Art & Design Courses Overview – Kirkcaldy High School 

Students in S4-S6 can choose from a suite of SQA Art & Design qualifications, progressing from National 4 and National 5 through Higher and Advanced Higher. Across these levels, learners develop expressive and design skills, build folios of practical work, carry out critical studies of artists and designers, respond to briefs, and work independently on personal projects. These courses prepare students for further study, portfolio development, and careers in the creative industries. 

In the N4/N5 course, you will develop your creativity, imagination, and practical skills. You’ll explore the work of artists and designers from both the past and present, while also learning how to express your own ideas. Through different projects, you’ll show how you can solve problems in creative ways and present your work effectively. You’ll also have the chance to choose your own themes in Expressive and Design projects. 

In the Higher course, you will learn about the work of artists and designers and explore how they create their work. You’ll also build your own skills by experimenting with expressive art and design processes. The course gives you the chance to be inspired, take on creative challenges, and express your own thoughts, ideas, and feelings through your work. 

The Advanced Higher Art & Design course provides you with opportunities to work independently in either Expressive or Design specialisms. You’ll conduct in-depth research into artists or designers, explore personal themes, experiment with a variety of materials and techniques, and produce a folio of creative work in 2D or 3D. You will also write a critical essay analysing a selected artwork or design, reflect on your own creative decisions, and develop sophisticated visual, technical, and evaluative skills. 

Career Pathways in Art & Design 

 Further Study & Education 

• HNC/HND or Degree in Fine art, design or architecture – Progress to college or university-level study. 
• Apprenticeships – Gain hands-on experience while learning on the job. 
• Creative Industries Courses – Explore related areas like film, graphic design, or media. 

Fine Art & Illustration 

• Painter / Fine Artist – Create original artworks for galleries or commissions. 
• Illustrator – Design images for books, magazines, games, or digital media. 
• Printmaker – Use traditional or digital techniques to produce art prints. 

Design  

• Graphic Designer – Create logos, posters, packaging, and digital content. 
• Textile Designer – Design patterns and fabrics for fashion or interiors. 
• Jewellery Designer – Craft wearable art using metals, stones, and other materials. 
• Ceramic Artist – Make functional or decorative objects from clay. 

Digital & Media Arts 

• Animator – Bring drawings or 3D models to life for film, TV, or games. 
• Game Artist – Design characters, environments, and assets for video games. 
• Web / UX Designer – Create websites and apps that are visually appealing and easy to use. 
• Digital Illustrator – Use software to create art for media, advertising, or publishing. 

Architecture & Built Environment 

• Architect – Design buildings and spaces that are functional and beautiful. 
• Interior Designer – Plan and style indoor spaces for homes, shops, or offices. 
• Landscape Designer – Design outdoor spaces like parks and gardens. 

Fashion & Styling 

• Fashion Designer – Create clothing collections and accessories. 
• Costume Designer – Design outfits for theatre, film, or TV. 
• Fashion Stylist – Put together looks for photo shoots, celebrities, or brands. 

Curation & Education 

• Art Teacher / Lecturer – Teach art and design in schools, colleges, or workshops. 
• Gallery Curator – Organise exhibitions and care for collections. 
• Art Therapist – Use art to support people’s mental health and wellbeing. 

Staff Biographies 

Mrs Cowie – PTC Expressive Arts, Teacher of Art & Design and Photography 

Mrs Cowie has a BDes (Hons) degree in textiles from DJCAD, at the University of Dundee, and started teaching after completing PGDE at the University of Strathclyde. She is passionate about Art and all things creative. She loves colour and pattern and is always looking to the environment for sources of inspiration. She also enjoys photography and loves to capture creative images in all sorts of places. 

Mrs Jack – Teacher of Art & Design 

After graduating from DJCA with a BA (Hons) in Fine Art Printmaking, Mrs Jack has taught Art & Design and Photography across all levels at KHS. She is passionate about working with young people, nurturing their creativity, and helping them develop confidence in their artistic skills. Outside the classroom, she enjoys painting portraits and spending time in the garden. Whether teaching or creating in the studio, Mrs Jack encourages students to embrace their individuality, experiment with new techniques, and discover their own unique voice in the world of art.

Miss Kinloch– Teacher of Art & Design and Fashion & Textiles 

Miss Kinloch has a BSc (Hons) degree from Heriot-Watt University, studying at their Scottish Borders Campus in Galashiels.  Miss Kinloch brings a passion for fashion history and hands-on creativity to the classroom. Inspired by the glamour of 1920s style, she loves bringing vintage influences into modern design. An avid quilter and dressmaker, she enjoys sharing traditional techniques with a contemporary twist. 

Miss Crichton – Teacher of Art & Design and Fashion & Textiles 

After graduating from Heriot-Watt University with a BA (Hons) in Fashion, I now teach both Art & Design and Fashion & Textiles, sharing my passion for creativity every day. I love illustrating and exploring all things arty, whether that’s in the classroom or my own sketchbook. When I’m not teaching or creating, you’ll usually find me at a gig, wandering through museums, or uncovering old, interesting places. For me, art isn’t just something I do—it’s a way of life that I’m always excited to share.