Learning in Year 1

Year 1 marks an exciting step in children’s learning as they build upon the foundations developed in Reception. Through a carefully sequenced, knowledge-rich curriculum, pupils develop confidence, independence and a lasting enthusiasm for learning.

Daily phonics, reading and writing lessons help children become increasingly fluent readers and confident communicators. Pupils enjoy a rich selection of stories, poetry and non-fiction, including Beegu, Where the Wild Things Are, The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Proudest Blue. They learn to write sentences accurately and explore setting descriptions, instructions, recounts, informal letters, familiar stories and poetry.

In mathematics, children strengthen their understanding of number and place value while developing skills in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. They also explore shape, measurement, time, money, fractions and position and direction.

Across the wider curriculum, pupils:

• investigate seasonal changes, plants, animals, humans and everyday materials in science;
• learn about continents, oceans, the United Kingdom, hot and cold locations, maps and fieldwork in geography;
• explore changes within living memory and the lives of significant individuals, including Mary Anning, David Attenborough, Neil Armstrong, Mae Jemison, Bernard Harris Jr and Tim Peake, in history;
• develop creativity through drawing, painting, printmaking, textiles, sculpture and design projects;
• experience singing, rhythm, pulse, pitch, tempo and dynamics in music; and
• learn about friendships, families, respectful relationships, safety, healthy choices and being ready to learn through PSHE.

Regular opportunities for phonics, handwriting, spelling, physical education and creative learning ensure that children receive a broad, balanced and engaging curriculum throughout the year.

Further details can be found in our Year 1 curriculum overview.