Year One

Dear Parents and Year 1 Pupils,

Welcome to Year 1!

We hope that you have had a lovely time over the summer. We can see that you are all ready to start this new school year.

Mrs Baxter and Mrs Ward-Tsang are looking forward to getting to know you and will be working together to ensure that all Year 1 pupils have a very exciting and productive year. We hope that you enjoy the new challenges and approaches to learning that Year 1 has to offer!

Transition from Reception to Year 1

Our aim is to ensure that the children experience a smooth transition from the Foundation Stage to Key Stage One. The Year 1 curriculum builds upon and extends the experiences that children have had in Reception. Learning through play will continue to be an important part of the school day, and the children will gradually be eased into more formal learning as the year goes on so that they remain motivated, enthused and eager learners. Please don't hesitate to come and see us if you have any questions or queries.

General Reminders...
1. The children will be doing PE on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please ensure your child has their PE kit in school and that all items are clearly labelled. Also please supply a pair of tracksuit bottoms. We encourage children to practise getting dressed at home to help them get changed quickly in school!

2. Any letters or reply slips, which need to be returned, can be put in your child's book bag. The children are encouraged to check them each morning and give things in after the register.

Reading

Each pupil in Year 1 has been allocated a day when they will be heard to read and have their books changed. We will issue 2 books per week and there will be a list of small activities to do alongside reading their books. With the support of parent helpers we hope to hear your child read regularly throughout the week but books will only be changed on the allocated day. Please see the attached list showing the day allocated to your child. If you require additional reading material, then this is an excellent opportunity to visit the local library and allow your child to personalise their reading choices.

Year 1 Reading Day Schedule

Your child will have his/her reading books changed on the allocated day as already notified.

The Curriculum

Attached is a curriculum overview for you to see the work that your child will be covering in class throughout the year. It will give you an opportunity to discuss these topics at home and help your child to find out more.

Please take the time to talk, read, research and visit places of interest that will help your child with the curriculum that we are covering. The children love to share their knowledge in class and it helps them to take ownership of their learning.

And Finally...

As together "we walk in the footsteps of Christ," we greatly look forward to the coming year, working with your children to encourage a love of learning and helping them to reach their full potential.

Mrs Baxter and Mrs Ward-Tsang

Year 1 Spring Term 2011 Overview