Year 1 Half Term Update: A Joyful Start to the Academic Year at Windrush Valley Prep School
Our Year 1 class at Windrush Valley Prep School has settled into the new academic year with enthusiasm and curiosity. It’s been a joy to see the children adapt to the increased structure of their school day and embrace their role as mentors for the younger pupils. They have shown a remarkable sense of responsibility, taking pride in setting a positive example for their peers. The first half term has been a whirlwind of learning and discovery, with our Year 1 pupils diving into new subjects and building foundational skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey.
Mathematics: Building Foundations and Number Sense
This term, our focus in mathematics has been on establishing a solid foundation in number recognition and understanding. The children have been practicing counting forwards and backwards within 20, helping to strengthen their mental number line and develop familiarity with numerical order. They’ve also been working on number placement by identifying missing numerals on a number line and representing numbers on a tens frame, a tool that visually reinforces place value.
The children were introduced to comparison symbols (<, =, and >), learning to describe amounts as “more,” “less,” or “equal.” By associating these terms with practical exercises, Year 1 pupils have gained confidence in comparing quantities and using mathematical language to explain their findings. These early experiences with numbers are key building blocks that will support their future success in mathematics.
English: Exploring Classic Stories and Developing Writing Skills
In English, Year 1 has been exploring the imaginative worlds created by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. The class has been especially captivated by The Jolly Postman and Funnybones, two beloved books that have inspired various activities designed to strengthen reading comprehension and writing skills.
By reading The Jolly Postman, pupils have practiced story sequencing, learned how to compose invitations, and gained insight into how addresses are formatted on envelopes. Funnybones has introduced the children to descriptive language, as they used adjectives to describe the book’s charming characters. These activities have not only nurtured a love for reading but have also helped the pupils develop confidence in expressing themselves through writing.
History: Learning from Remarkable Figures
In History, Year 1 has been exploring the lives of “Significant People in History,” an engaging topic that has allowed the children to learn about individuals who brought about meaningful change. They began their journey with John Cadbury, delving into the history of chocolate and the remarkable growth of Cadbury’s factory. The highlight of this learning was a trip to Cadbury World, where the children saw firsthand how John Cadbury’s legacy has evolved over the years.
Following their exploration of Cadbury’s story, the class learned about other impactful figures, including Florence Nightingale, David Attenborough, and William Shakespeare. These figures provided a fascinating insight into fields such as healthcare, environmental conservation, and literature, inspiring the children to consider how individuals can make a difference in the world.
Celebrating Black History Month: Honouring Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks.
As part of our Black History Month celebrations, Year 1 learned about two iconic figures in the civil rights movement: Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Through engaging stories and discussions, the children explored how these leaders worked together to stand up for their rights and advocate for equality. They were inspired by the bravery and resilience shown by Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks and gained a sense of the importance of standing up for what is fair and just.
A Fantastic First Half Term
It has been a fantastic first half term for our Year 1 class at Windrush Valley Prep School. The children have demonstrated a passion for learning, a respect for each other, and an eagerness to engage with new subjects and ideas. From practising foundational skills in maths to exploring history through meaningful stories and activities, Year 1 has laid a strong foundation for the rest of the year. We look forward to seeing their continued growth, curiosity, and excitement as they embark on the next part of their journey.