Welcome to Year 1
In Year 1, children continue to build on the foundations established in Reception while developing greater independence and confidence as learners. Through the Primary Knowledge Curriculum (PKC), pupils acquire a rich body of knowledge across subjects, helping them make connections in their learning and understand the world around them.
Our curriculum is ambitious, knowledge-rich and carefully sequenced to ensure every child can succeed.
English
Children develop their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills through high-quality texts and engaging learning experiences.
Reading
- Daily phonics lessons following a systematic phonics programme
- Developing fluency, accuracy and comprehension
- Enjoying a wide range of stories, poetry and non-fiction texts
- Building vocabulary and language skills
Writing
- Writing simple sentences with increasing accuracy
- Using capital letters, full stops and finger spaces
- Developing handwriting and letter formation
- Creating stories, descriptions and factual writing
Mathematics
Year 1 mathematics focuses on developing a deep understanding of number and calculation.
Children learn to:
- Count forwards and backwards confidently
- Understand place value within 100
- Add and subtract using practical resources and mental methods
- Recognise and describe shapes
- Measure length, height, weight and capacity
- Tell the time to the hour and half hour
- Solve mathematical problems and explain their thinking
Science
Through practical investigations and enquiry, children explore the world around them.
Topics include:
- Seasons and weather
- Everyday materials
- Plants
- Animals, including humans
Children learn to ask questions, observe carefully and record what they discover.
History
The PKC history curriculum introduces children to significant people and events from the past.
Children may explore:
- Changes within living memory
- Important historical figures
- Local and national history
- How life has changed over time
Learning helps pupils develop a sense of chronology and understand how the past has shaped the present.
Geography
Children learn about the world and their place within it through map work, fieldwork and geographical enquiry.
Topics may include:
- The local area
- Continents and oceans
- Human and physical features
- Weather and climate
- Comparing places around the world
Art and Design
Children develop their creativity and artistic knowledge through:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Collage
- Sculpture
- Studying the work of artists
They learn key artistic techniques while expressing their own ideas and creativity.
Design and Technology
Pupils learn to:
- Design purposeful products
- Use a range of tools and materials safely
- Build, evaluate and improve their creations
- Develop practical problem-solving skills
Music
Children develop a love of music through:
- Singing
- Listening and appraising
- Performing
- Exploring rhythm and pulse
- Playing simple instruments
Computing
Children learn how to use technology safely and effectively.
Areas of learning include:
- Online safety
- Programming and coding basics
- Using digital devices
- Creating digital content
- Understanding technology in everyday life
Religious Education
Children learn about different faiths, beliefs and worldviews, developing respect and understanding for others.
They explore:
- Special people
- Celebrations and festivals
- Stories and beliefs
- Communities and belonging
Physical Education
PE promotes healthy lifestyles, teamwork and physical development.
Children participate in:
- Fundamental movement skills
- Games
- Dance
- Gymnastics
- Outdoor activities
Personal Development
Through our wider curriculum, children learn:
- Kindness and respect
- Resilience and independence
- Positive relationships
- Wellbeing and healthy choices
- British Values
Supporting Learning at Home
Families can support their child’s learning by:
- Reading together every day
- Practising phonics and key vocabulary
- Learning number facts
- Talking about school learning and experiences
- Encouraging curiosity about the world