Welcome to Year 3
Welcome to Year 3 and the beginning of Key Stage 2!
Year 3 is an exciting stage in your child’s education as they build upon the foundations developed in Key Stage 1 and become increasingly independent learners. Through the Primary Knowledge Curriculum (PKC), children develop a broad and secure understanding of the world through carefully sequenced learning that builds knowledge over time.
Our curriculum encourages curiosity, ambition and a love of learning, ensuring every child develops the confidence and knowledge to succeed.
English
Reading, writing and communication skills remain central to learning across the curriculum.
Reading
Children will:
- Read a wide range of fiction, non-fiction and poetry.
- Develop reading fluency and expression.
- Explore rich vocabulary and language choices.
- Improve comprehension through discussion and questioning.
- Build confidence when reading independently and aloud.
Writing
Children will learn to:
- Write for a range of purposes and audiences.
- Use paragraphs to organise ideas.
- Develop sentence structure and grammar.
- Apply spelling patterns and rules.
- Use descriptive language to engage readers.
- Write stories, reports, letters, explanations and poetry.
Mathematics
Year 3 mathematics develops children’s confidence, fluency, reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Topics include:
- Place value
- Addition and subtraction
- Multiplication and division
- Fractions
- Measurement
- Money
- Time
- Geometry
- Statistics
A particular focus is placed on learning the 3, 4 and 8 times tables, helping children develop rapid recall and confidence with multiplication.
Science
Science encourages children to investigate and understand the natural world through practical enquiry and observation.
Topics may include:
- Animals, including humans
- Plants
- Rocks and soils
- Light
- Forces and magnets
Children learn to:
- Ask scientific questions.
- Make predictions.
- Carry out investigations.
- Record and interpret results.
- Draw conclusions using evidence.
History
The PKC History curriculum brings the past to life through the study of significant civilisations, people and events.
Topics may include:
- Ancient Egypt
- The Stone Age, Bronze Age and Iron Age
- Significant achievements of early civilisations
- Historical sources and evidence
- Chronology and timelines
Children develop a deeper understanding of how societies changed over time and how the past influences the present.
Geography
Children develop their understanding of the physical and human features of the world.
Topics may include:
- Countries and regions of the United Kingdom
- Mountains, rivers and landscapes
- Settlements and land use
- Climate and weather
- Map skills and fieldwork
Children learn how people interact with environments and how places are connected across the world.
Art and Design
Art lessons provide opportunities for creativity while developing knowledge of artists, styles and techniques.
Children will:
- Improve drawing and sketching skills.
- Explore painting techniques.
- Create sculptures and 3D artwork.
- Study influential artists and their work.
- Develop an understanding of colour, texture, pattern and form.
Design and Technology
Children use creativity and practical problem-solving skills to design and make products.
Learning includes:
- Researching and designing products
- Using tools safely and effectively
- Food technology
- Structures and mechanisms
- Evaluating and improving designs
Children learn how design impacts everyday life and society.
Music
Music develops confidence, creativity and appreciation of different musical traditions.
Children will:
- Sing as part of a group.
- Learn about rhythm, pulse and pitch.
- Listen to and discuss a variety of musical styles.
- Play instruments.
- Perform and compose simple pieces.
Computing
Children learn to use technology responsibly, safely and creatively.
Topics include:
- Online safety
- Coding and programming
- Creating digital content
- Data handling
- Understanding computer systems and networks
Children build digital skills that prepare them for the modern world.
Religious Education
Religious Education encourages understanding, respect and reflection.
Children explore:
- Christianity and other world religions
- Beliefs and values
- Sacred texts and stories
- Festivals and celebrations
- Communities and places of worship
They learn to appreciate similarities and differences between faiths and cultures.
Physical Education
PE promotes healthy lifestyles, teamwork and personal achievement.
Activities may include:
- Athletics
- Dance
- Gymnastics
- Invasion games
- Striking and fielding games
- Outdoor and adventurous activities
Children develop physical skills alongside resilience, cooperation and sportsmanship.
Personal Development
Personal development supports children in becoming confident, responsible and respectful members of society.
Through assemblies, class discussions and wider school experiences, children learn about:
- Positive relationships
- Respect and kindness
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Online and personal safety
- British Values
- Diversity and inclusion
French
As part of Key Stage 2, children begin learning French.
They will:
- Develop confidence in speaking and listening.
- Learn everyday vocabulary and phrases.
- Explore French culture.
- Begin reading and writing simple words and sentences.
Learning a language helps children develop communication skills and cultural awareness.
How You Can Help at Home
You can support your child by:
- Reading together regularly.
- Practising times tables.
- Encouraging curiosity and discussion about learning.
- Supporting homework and home learning tasks.
- Providing opportunities to explore books, museums and educational experiences.
- Promoting independence and organisation.