Our Year 1 curriculum builds on the strong foundations established in the Early Years, continuing to reflect our core values of Confidently Me, Belonging Together and Challenged to Contribute. Children are supported to grow in independence and resilience as they begin Key Stage 1, while still feeling secure and valued within a nurturing environment. The curriculum is broad and engaging, encompassing high-quality texts in English, a structured approach to mathematics, and a wide range of subjects including science, humanities, the arts and physical education. Carefully sequenced learning enables children to deepen their knowledge and skills across the year, while opportunities for discussion, creativity and collaboration ensure that children are active participants in their learning and feel empowered to contribute.

A key priority in Year 1 is ensuring a smooth and successful transition from the EYFS. At the beginning of the year, children continue to access elements of child-led provision, enabling them to build on familiar routines and approaches to learning. This allows practitioners to observe, assess and support individual needs, while maintaining a strong emphasis on exploration, independence and purposeful play. As the year progresses, there is a carefully considered shift towards more structured teaching, guided by children’s readiness and development, ensuring that expectations increase in a supportive and responsive way. 

This approach ensures continuity in pedagogy while aligning with Key Stage 1 expectations and school wide priorities. Teaching is ambitious and well-sequenced, with a clear focus on securing core knowledge and skills in reading, writing and mathematics, alongside a rich, varied wider curriculum. Ongoing assessment informs next steps, ensuring appropriate challenge and support for all learners. As a result, children develop as confident, engaged learners who are well-prepared for the demands of Key Stage 1 and beyond.