Key Stage One

Key Stage One consists of years 1 and 2. Both year groups work closely together and we study one exciting theme every term. Themes are carefully developed with the wider curriculum objectives at the forefront.  

Our approach to learning is based on finding experiences that are relevant and exciting and where we can, apply what we learn in the basic skills of reading, writing and maths to meaningful contexts. Our curriculum has been designed by the school, specifically with our children in mind to ensure progression throughout the year groups and avoid repetition. We believe that the best learning happens when the children have the opportunity to have an element of self-led learning along with support and regular inputs from adults in a well structured environment. There has been a lot of time spent developing the continuous provision for children in KS1 to ensure an effective transition from EYFS and continue to provide a learning environment where children are safe, happy and learning. Developing independence has been a priority in KS1 to prepare children for learning across the school and begin to take ownership of their own projects in Year 2.  

Reading is at the heart of everything we do in KS1. Reading in KS1 starts with a very structured phonics programme using Fisher Family Trust Phonics and Reading Scheme which is delivered on a daily basis. Phonics and reading delivered daily to all children are matched closely to the level they are at. Guided reading books are matched closely to the phonics step that the children are accessing. Alongside sharing books daily and reading both to each other and quiet reading, our literacy is all taught through key texts to allow children to be exposed to a wide range of quality texts which they may not access independently. We use ‘The Write Stuff’ unit plans to develop writing genres and skills. We expect KS1 children to read every day and for Year 2 children to use TimesTables Rockstars to develop their mathematical fluency.   

Throughout the year, we encourage parents to come into school to learn alongside, celebrate and share their children’s learning. We provide a range of opportunities such as ‘Come to Understand’ sessions (the aim being to share with parents our approach to teaching an aspect of learning), information sessions, celebrations, concerts and many more. This means that parents are able to select the opportunities they would like, and are able, to attend. 

PSHE and well-being are a priority and in KS1, along with the rest of the school, we support the children to develop a growth mindset to become more resilient, robust and independent learners. One way to develop this is to provide a range of additional clubs for the children to attend.