Curriculum Years 1 and 2

Our Key Stage 1 classes, Years 1 and 2, broadly follow the National Curriculum. English and Maths are taught as distinct lessons, occupying half the available teaching time, with the rest of their work based around a topic theme. Topic incorporates Science, Geography, History, Art and Design Technology. Music, Physical Education, Religious Education, ICT, French and Drama are also taught.

English

Reading and writing is the foundation for all subjects with communication the key to language. Children are nurtured to develop confidence in speaking and listening, to concentrate and to ask and answer questions. Pupils discover a range of writing styles and develop their use of language, grammar and spelling. Being able to read opens up an exciting new world and children have the opportunity to explore a wide range of literature individually, as well as within the class and smaller groups.

Mathematics

Maths is a life skill and we nurture the children to have confidence to ‘have a go’. Games and activities provide a practical medium for children to learn and implement new skills. We monitor the children carefully as the building blocks for future mathematical development are put in place. Opportunities are available for them to explore, discover and explain within our nurturing environment.

Topic

Through our topic approach, the children are encouraged to become fully involved in their learning. It provides depth and broadens a child’s learning, allowing their interests to be followed. There are opportunities for independent learning and the pupils are taught a wide variety of skills: observation, exploration, investigation and awareness. It is an enriching experience linking scientific concepts, geographical themes, understanding of the past and creativity and imagination.

Music

Music plays an important part in our school life and our pupils are encouraged to experience a wide variety of styles. They explore rhythm and sounds, and have the opportunity to play individually and as part of a group. Singing is highly valued and the children regularly sing together.
There are extra curricular activities for those who are interested.

PE

All children are given the opportunity to develop their physical competence through a range of activities. Personal development in co-ordination and physical agility is fostered. Children enjoy taking part in dance, gymnastics, tennis, swimming, ball skill activities including striking and catching, and team games, such as netball, football and tag rugby, and use both the indoor and outdoor environments. Children are able to attend our ‘Fun with Sports’ Club, as an extra curricular activity.

ICT

During ICT lessons, the children are taught the skills they will need for their future lives. They are taught technical skills beginning with mouse control and familiarity with the keyboard, which leads into manipulation of data, word processing and research skills. The children then practise these skills in other lessons.

RE

Our RE lessons help the children to be aware of themselves and the world around them. They find out more about the Christian religion and its ceremonies and begin to develop an understanding and tolerance of other religions.

French

We understand the importance of being introduced to new languages and cultures at a young age. Our Year 1 and 2 children have the opportunity to learn about France, its language and culture. Role-play, games and songs feature highly in our French teaching and the children introduced to this language in an exciting and stimulating way.

Drama

Our weekly Drama lessons are focused on developing the children, both individually and as part of a group, to dramatise stories and develop the role of characters. Concentration is improved through warm up activities and games. The children work on clear speech and voice projection, and they regularly perform to an audience which develops their confidence, and this is highlighted when they work towards their summer production. Their lessons are linked with their topic and literacy work.