KS1 is a lively and active learning environment where the children can work on both an individual and group basis.

The new National Curriculum was produced in 2014 and is now well established, however staff constantly review their teaching schemes to make the work more interesting and relevant for the children. The core subjects of English, Maths, RE and Science are given the most teaching time.

English: In English lessons, the children develop their writing skills through exploring a variety of fictional and non-fictional books as well as poetry. They have fun listening to a dynamic range of books and will explore different aspects of the books, such as characterisation, atmosphere, events and language. The children have the opportunity to explore different writing genres as well as writing creatively.  The children will also be introduced to new grammar concepts which will aid their understanding of the English language and how it is used in their writing.

The children are immersed in an array of reading opportunities in KS1. As well as exploring books in the main English lessons the children are introduced to further picture books in the reading lesson. The children develop their understanding of these books through discussion with the teacher and answering comprehension questions. The children also get to develop their fluency through guided reading lessons where the children read out loud in small groups.

Phonics: We use a synthetic phonics programme called ‘Read Write Inc’. Read Write Inc is a method of learning letter sounds and blending them together to read and write words. As part of this, children have daily phonics sessions in small groups where they participate in speaking, listening and spelling activities that are matched to their developing needs. The teachers draw upon observations and continuous assessment to ensure children are stretched and challenged and to identify children who may need additional support. Children work through the different phases, learning and developing their phonics sounds and knowledge.

All children in Year 1 take part in a Phonics Screening Test in June.

 

Maths: we follow a Singapore maths approach –  ‘Maths No Problem’ (Singapore consistently top the international benchmarking studies for maths teaching.)

which uses a mastery approach to develop fluency and reasoning. The lesson is structured into 5 parts; ‘In focus, Exploration, Let’s Learn, Guided Practise and Independent Learning. In Year 2 after Christmas the children start ‘Times Table Rockstars’. They are able to play this online at home and compete against others. This programme has proved to have a huge impact on children’s fluency of their times tables.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Come and See’, the Religious Education Programme for Primary Schools, is used as the basis for our RE teaching. The aim of this programme is to explore the religious dimension of questions about life, dignity and purpose within the Catholic tradition. Links are made with children’s own experiences.

Class prayers, assemblies, acts of Collective Worship and Masses form a very important part of the moral and spiritual development of the children. Other services, such as carol services etc. are held throughout the year. Parents, governors and members of the local and parish community are invited to attend.

 

Science: The children’s scientific knowledge, skills and understanding are developed throughout key stage 1, helping the children to make sense of the world around them. We want to equip them with not only the minimum statutory requirements of the science National Curriculum but to prepare them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of later life. We enrich their time in our school with memorable, unforgettable experiences and provide opportunities which piques their interests and passions. We firmly believe that it is not just about what happens in the classroom, it is about the added value we offer to really inspire our children.

Children have access to an afternoon of Science per week, plus ‘Science Week’ which takes place in March.

 

 

In addition, we teach the following foundation subjects:

• Art
• Computing
• Design Technology
• History
• Geography
• Music
• Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education
• Physical Education

The overall aim is to provide a broad and balanced curriculum, to promote the  spiritual, mental and physical development of every child. Close links with parents and outside agencies are fostered and encouraged. Staff are always willing to meet parents to discuss any problems or successes.

Rewards:
All of the KS1 children collect smiley cards. They aim to collect 100 to receive a bronze certificate, 200 hundred for a silver certificate and 300 hundred for a gold certificate. There are whole class rewards if all children hit the benchmarks of bronze by Christmas, silver by Easter and gold by Summer. Smileys are awarded for many reasons e.g. good work, handwriting, helpful attitudes, politeness, acts of kindness, achievement of specific goal. bravery, resilience etc. In addition, individual awards are made each week in the School Assembly. During this lovely event, children are valued and encouraged to follow the positive examples of others.

 

 

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