Key Stage 1

An exciting time awaits the children as they move into Year 1 and then Year 2. During this stage, the strong foundations laid in Early Years are built upon through our curriculum, and children are given more opportunities to widen their experiences and develop as learners.

Transition is a key focus in our school, ensuring children feel safe, confident and supported from early in the year. Reception children have already begun spending time with Key Stage 1 children and adults at lunchtimes, helping them to build trusted relationships in a familiar environment.

We plan a curriculum that is both challenging and engaging, based around topics we know children enjoy. These include our local area, the seasons and weather, animals, the Great Fire of London, plants and food. These topics allow children to develop their knowledge and skills while engaging enthusiastically with learning.

We continue to enjoy whole-school events such as Christmas Jumper Day, World Book Day, Fire Up Fridays and our wellbeing walk to school. Children also take part in wider school celebrations including Easter egg competitions, nativities, the Year 6 play and Sports Day.

Children’s awareness of the wider world is raised through joining in with national events such as Red Nose Day, Children in Need, Jeans for Genes Day and Wear Yellow for Mental Health Day.

We aim to provide a range of enrichment opportunities both as a school and within Key Stage 1. Previous enrichment for Key Stage 1 includes trips to Askham Bryan, Yorkshire Wildlife Park, visits to the local high street, virtual online trips to the Great Fire of London and the National Railway Museum. We also welcome visitors into school to share information about their jobs and roles within our community.

Parents are invited into class each half term to strengthen the connection between home and school. Children love sharing their learning, and these sessions give families the chance to celebrate achievements together.

Transition from Key Stage 1 into Key Stage 2 at the end of Year 2 is also carefully planned. During the summer term, Year 2 children begin using the Key Stage 2 playground at lunchtimes, allowing them to form positive relationships with new children and adults. Our Key Stage 2 play leaders also support Key Stage 1 children by providing lunchtime activities and spending time with them in the playground, building secure and supportive relationships.