A love of learning
Every year is vital for a child and we know that you want the very best educational experience for them – so do we!
Key Stage 1 is an important bridge in a child’s development as they are putting into practice all the skills and foundational knowledge that they have gained in Early Years Foundation Stages and building upon them. Years 1 and 2 are situated in large, bright rooms in their own building. Each classroom has safe, direct access to the outside grounds, there are quiet spaces for 1-2-1 reading, and they have use of the Art Room and Computer Suite. Within the relaxed, inclusive and happy atmosphere, the pupils gradually become used to a more formal approach to education whilst retaining the space required for children of this age.
Our approach
Teaching children confidence and independent thinking
Our teachers genuinely care about every child in their class, working hard to deliver a rich and engaging academic curriculum tailored to the needs of each child. This approach to teaching keeps children on track and builds their confidence by ensuring that each feels individual success, which is celebrated amongst the whole school community.
Years 1 and 2 signal the beginning of National Curriculum expectations and standardised testing to enable progress tracking. The curriculum is taught in separate subjects while children gain confidence and independence in their learning and abilities. Phonics and reading continue to be essential with most children finishing the phonics scheme by the end of Year 2. Maths and English are key and form the beginning of each day’s timetable.
Join us for a Personal Tour
We warmly welcome families throughout the year, offering tailored personal tours on a day that suits you, including school holidays.
Enjoy a guided tour of the school, arranged by a member of our friendly Admissions Team who can answer any questions you may have
Curriculum
Building solid foundations for future learning
The Core Knowledge Curriculum for Science, Music, Art, History and Geography is introduced in this Key Stage and continues throughout the school. Other subjects taught by the class teacher include Computing, Art, Religious Studies, Reasoning and PSHE. Children have weekly Drama lessons taught by a specialist teacher.
In the Pre-Prep stage, the curriculum is designed to encourage children to develop a love for learning while also building their social, emotional, and physical skills.
The curriculum is designed to provide a foundation for future learning and development. We aim to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
French
Having grasped the basics in French in EYFS, children in Key Stage 1 will progress to learn topic vocabulary and increase their confidence in spoken French through repetition, games and songs. Written work is introduced in Year 2, as well as building on oral comprehension and an accurate accent.
Music
Years 1 and 2 are taught Music twice a week by the Director of Music which involves learning about rhythm, playing with sound, using their voice, responding to music and playing percussion. Alongside these aspects of Music, the children will be learning how to look out for these musical elements in famous works whilst also familiarising themselves with key composers. Once a week there is a singing assembly with the whole school.
Drama
Children in Year 1 and Year 2 have a weekly class drama lesson with our LAMDA drama teacher. They enjoy taking part in fun role play activities, telling stories and performing mini plays, which help build their confidence to speak clearly and with expression.
Sports
The children have two Games and one PE lesson a week, taught by our specialist sports teachers. Skills and team games are taught which build upon and extend those gained in EYFS. The sporting highlight of the year is the School Sports Day held in June which everyone takes part in to represent their House.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR, CLUBS & TRIPS
Our pupils excel beyond the classroom
Our pupils in Years 1 & 2 have a trip or workshop each term. With a wealth of museums, theatres and locations to visit, our trips are carefully planned to support and extend the classroom learning, often including tailored workshops.
There are after-school clubs run by the teachers in Key Stage 1 as well as some external providers such as tennis club, which parents may sign children up to.
After school care is available each day until 6pm.
