Year 1 2023 - 2024

Welcome to year 1's class page and welcome to Year 1!

Here you will find details of our daily routines and our curriculum.

I am Mrs McGowan. I am thrilled to continue as the Year 1 teacher this year. I am looking forward to getting to know you and working together so that we have a very exciting and productive year.

In Year 1 we have Miss Cocking to support with learning and Miss Shorthose as our midday assistant.

Transition from Reception to Year 1

Our aim is to ensure that the children experience a smooth transition from the Foundation Stage to Key Stage One. The Year 1 curriculum builds upon and extends the experiences that children have had in Reception. Learning through play will continue to be an important part of the school day, and the children will gradually be eased into more formal learning as the year progresses so that they remain motivated, enthused and eager learners. Please don’t hesitate to come and see me after school if you have any questions or queries.

Reading in Year 1:

Your child will be given two books and a reading diary to bring home and read- an “I can read” book and a “Read with me” book. The “I can read” book links with their phonics learning and the children should work throughout the week to read this book independently. This book will be changed each Friday. The “Read with me” books should be read with support and we will change these books whenever they have finished them. They will need to bring their reading diary and books to school every day. Please use the reading diary to share both what they have read and also celebrate how wonderfully they are doing. The children will also have lots of opportunities to read and enjoy books throughout the week at school and at home.

Homework

In an effort to ease the pressure on your valuable weekends, we will send a “Pick ‘n Mix Homework Menu” home at the start of each half term. In the table, there are lots of different homework activities to choose from. They MUST complete the activities that are coloured grey and at least one 4-star activity. You can choose to do whatever you like each week, however by the end of the half term, they must try to have earned 20 stars. When they have completed a homework task, put a cross through the box and colour in the number of stars you achieved. If they manage to earn 20 or more stars over the half term, they will earn a sticker and certificate.

Additionally, each half term children will be given maths Key Instant Recall Facts (KIRFs) to practise and learn at home as well as at in school.

These will be sent home via email and include practical ideas for parents / helpers to assist the children in grasping the key facts.

It is important that they know these thoroughly and can recall specific facts instantly.

Topic

Our Topic this term is 'This is Me!.'

A fantastic and informative topic about ourselves, how we grow and how we stay healthy. 

The children will have the opportunity to explore:

• Our bodies and how they have changed since we were born.
• Our 5 senses and the bosy parts we use for them.
• A celebration of families.
• Where we live.

To find out mo re about our learning, please go to http://www.st-pauls-hyde.tameside.sch.uk/page/year-1/20238

General Reminders…

• The children will be doing PE on Tuesday and Thursday. Please ensure your child has their PE kit in school and that all items are clearly labelled. We encourage children to practise getting dressed at home to help them get changed quickly in school!
• Any letters or reply slips, which need to be returned, can be put in your child’s book bag. The children are encouraged to check them each morning and give things in at registration time.
• The children should bring their own water bottle every day which they can access throughout the day and they can refill their water when necessary. Please make sure your child’s name is written clearly on their water bottle.
• The children will be provided with a healthy snack at play time.

Keeping in Touch

If you have any questions/concerns/worries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for all of your support.

Mrs McGowan