ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on research indicating that a high proportion of primary school teachers are diffident with regard to teaching art. This lack of confidence affects many aspects of art provision and perpetuates the cycle of anxiety. There follows a summary reference to the historic context, an outline of the theory of the vicious cycle of diffidence, and a description of a survey conducted with students and teachers concluding with some positive suggestions for confidence building. A practical remedy is then offered which enables students and teachers to reflect on their own position.
