Year 1
Year 1: A vibrant, practical and inspiring start to Key Stage 1
The transition from the Foundation Stage to Year 1 is smooth, supportive and exciting, with children moving into a vibrant, broad curriculum that continues to emphasise hands‑on, practical learning.
Engaging, enjoyable learning every day
We know children learn best when they are actively engaged and having fun. Lessons are carefully structured to keep every child motivated—whether they’re:
- Working with the teacher during carpet time
- Collaborating with a partner
- Completing tasks independently
Year 1 nurtures curiosity, confidence and growing independence, with plenty of opportunities for pupils to explain their thinking, ask questions and take ownership of their learning.
Strong foundations in reading, writing and Maths
Reading and writing remain a major focus. Through differentiated activities and daily practice, each child is encouraged to work at their own level and stretch towards the next challenge. Children enjoy:
- Daily reading
- Phonics, spelling and handwriting lessons
- Creative writing sessions
In Maths, we use a range of practical apparatus to build early number confidence and help children understand mathematical concepts in concrete ways. Technology also enriches learning — iPads support English and Maths through games, and the Interactive Whiteboard helps bring lessons to life.
Exciting topics that bring learning to life
Science, History and Geography are taught through a topic‑based approach that inspires curiosity and creativity. Our Year 1 topics include:
- Castles
- Woodland Habitats and Animals (with investigations in our own woods)
- Polar Regions
- Space
- Famous People and Events
- Life Cycles
Educational visits and visitors play an important role in enriching these topics, with past highlights including Warwick Castle, the National Space Centre, Lego Discovery Birmingham, and talks from the RNLI.
French, music, PE and a broad co‑curricular offer
Speaking and listening skills developed in Reception continue to grow in Year 1. Children enjoy:
- Games, songs, rhymes and role play in French
- Early reading and writing in French
- Vocabulary topics such as introductions, greetings, colours, numbers, days of the week and family
The aim is to build confidence in listening, understanding and speaking French.
Children also continue to benefit from specialist teaching in Music and PE, and they can choose from a wide range of after‑school clubs, including Football, Lego Club, Golf, Yoga and more. Homework is topic‑based and encourages creative responses to what they are learning in class.
Forest school and outdoor learning
Our beautiful woods and fields form an integral part of school life. Regular Forest School and outdoor learning sessions help children develop:
- Confidence
- Leadership
- Problem‑solving skills
- A deeper understanding of the natural world
Being outdoors enhances wellbeing and encourages resilience and teamwork.
A nurturing team that understands every child
With small class sizes and a flexible, responsive approach to teaching, our dedicated staff ensure that individual needs and learning styles are recognised and supported. This personalised care helps every child in Year 1 to thrive, grow and achieve their full potential.