Year 1
At Stepney Park, we believe that a carefully planned transition to whole-class lessons provides pupils with the strongest foundation for success in Year 1. We do this through a phased approach across Autumn term. Initially, subjects such as phonics, writing, mathematics, physical education, music, art, and PSHEE are taught to the whole class. However, science, geography, history, and RE are explored through continuous provision. We design continuous provision in Year 1 to be both stimulating and appropriately challenging, combining adult-guided small-group instruction with independent tasks that enable children to consolidate key skills. Additionally, targeted provision helps address specific learning priorities carried over from EYFS. By the Spring term, all foundation subjects transition to discrete whole-class teaching like other year groups in the school.
Developing early reading and phonics confidence is a fundamental priority in Year 1, continuing from where they finished in Reception. Pupils participate in daily phonics instruction alongside one-to-one reading sessions with an adult. In June, every child completes the national phonics screening check, reading a designated list of words with their class teacher. Within writing sessions, children use their increasing phonic knowledge to write sentences, with a stronger focus on accuracy.
A variety of educational visits, workshops, and special events enrich the curriculum throughout the year. A particular highlight is the Spring Term Year 1 production, which offers pupils a wonderful platform to build confidence and enhance their communication skills.
Because regular reading at home is the most beneficial way to support your child, it is the sole home learning requirement for the year. Every week, children bring home two books: a library book intended to be shared together and a level-banded book tailored to their current reading ability. We ask that you read the library book to your child and listen to them read their banded book daily. Re-reading the banded book several times helps reinforce phonic knowledge and builds fluency.
Further details regarding the curriculum covered each term are outlined in the termly overview here.
For detailed guidance on the writing expectations in Year 1, click here.