Reception, Year 1 and 2
Our Key Stage 1 curriculum builds on the skills used in the Early Years and provides our pupils with a strong foundation in all subject areas.
The main focus is on Literacy and Numeracy and there is a cross-curricular approach to other subjects, designed to develop our pupils’ knowledge, understanding and help them learn skills needed as they head throughout the school. We build a safe and engaging learning environment that stimulates curiosity and encourages independent thinking, whilst also developing key social and emotional competencies.
We use the Read Write Inc. programme for the teaching of Phonics from Early Years onwards and the White Rose scheme for our Maths learning.
Our approach to teaching and learning is varied, and we use a range of methods and resources to cater for all. We place a strong emphasis on developing strong foundations in reading, writing and mathematics; however, we integrate these skills into a broader curriculum that includes specialist teaching in ICT, French, PE, Music and Dance.
Life in Key Stage 1
Explore the curriculum...
Reception
In Reception, we follow the Early Years Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage.
The EYFS framework includes 7 areas of learning and development that are equally important and inter-connected. However, 3 areas known as the prime areas are seen as particularly important for igniting curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, and for building children’s capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive.
The prime areas are:
- Communication and Language
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Physical Development
The specific areas include essential skills and knowledge. The prime areas are strengthened and applied through 4 specific areas:
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Through play our children explore and develop learning experiences, which help them make sense of the world. They have the opportunity to practise skills, develop ideas and think creatively alongside other children as well as individually. The children communicate with others as they investigate and solve problems.
At Warlingham Park School our classes are small allowing the class teacher to know the children well. Along with our high expectations, the pupils have the attention needed to advance their way through the EYFS objectives with daily individual reading aloud giving them the opportunity to thrive.
Year 1
During Year 1, their class teacher will build on work from the Early Years Foundation Stage. They will experience changes in the structure of the school day, the curriculum, and expectations. The children are encouraged to develop responsibility and independence.
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 include Computing, Drama, French, RE and Wellbeing.
Year 2
As your child enters Year 2, the structure of the school day and the curriculum remains similar to Year 1. They are encouraged to be increasingly independent and take responsibility for their behaviour, learning and possessions. They are looked upon as role models as they are the oldest children in the Key stage and are able to consistently demonstrate the Warlingham Way.
Our pupils enjoy the challenges and are encouraged to try their best, building confidence and an early love of learning. Learning is cross curricular, developing the children’s imaginations, creative flair and giving them a deeper understanding of a topic whilst focussing on building skills.
