This unit has been fully revised for 2026
Sequence of Learning for Teachers
In this unit of work children learn about the life and work of the British Nigerian contemporary artist Yinka Shonibare. Through the learning in this unit children are introduced to some of his most iconic work created over the past twenty-five years. Through discovering his artwork children explore ideas such as colonialism and cultural identity and have an opportunity to express their own journey through life through art. This unit of work introduces children to ideas and concepts behind the conceptual art movement.
This knowledge, skills and understanding is delivered through the following convergent task sessions:
Session 1: Introducing Yinka Shonibare
Session 2: Pattern Motifs
Session 3: The British Library
Session 4: Batik Patterned Cloth
Creative Outcome (Divergent task) – The Scramble for Africa
The unit of work completes with the creative outcome (divergent task) activity that can be delivered over two or more sessions. For the creative outcome children focus on the artwork ‘The Scramble for Africa’ a sculpture installation created by Yinka Shonibare in 2003. They examine the creative process of making sculpture before creating their own sculpture figurine based on the iconic work of the artist. These sessions can also be used for children to complete activities from sessions 1-4. The creative outcome activity provides an opportunity for children to apply their knowledge, skills and understanding from previous sessions as well as developing their creativity and understanding of the creative process by combining their imagination and ideas with knowledge and skills in art and design. The convergent tasks also provide an opportunity for the teacher to identify children who may need further support in developing skills and techniques during the divergent creative outcome task.
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.