This Art and design teacher video develops subject knowledge about watercolour paint, introducing its unique characteristics and how it can be used as an expressive artistic medium. It explains how watercolour is made, how varying the amount of water affects colour intensity and transparency and why different brushes and papers are suited to different techniques. Practical guidance is also provided on selecting appropriate classroom materials, including cost-effective alternatives to specialist watercolour paper.

The video encourages teachers to embrace the unpredictable nature of watercolour, demonstrating how water and pigment continue to move across the paper to create interesting textures, patterns and effects. Teachers are supported in encouraging purposeful experimentation, helping pupils develop confidence in the medium while recognising that unexpected outcomes can be part of the creative process. Throughout the unit, the emphasis is on building subject knowledge and confidence in teaching watercolour techniques.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Art and design painting videos, which support teachers in developing confidence and subject knowledge as they help children explore creative techniques and express their ideas through art.

See more of our Year 6 Art and design scheme of work.

• Art and design, Year 6, Painting and mixed media: World in watercolour, Lesson 2: Watercolour.
• Art and design, Year 6, Painting and mixed media: World in watercolour.