Year 4 at Windrush Valley Prep School

Year 4 at Windrush Valley Prep School is an exciting and enriching year, filled with opportunities for pupils to grow academically, creatively, and socially. As they progress through Key Stage 2, Year 4 pupils build on the skills they have already developed and begin to take on more independence and responsibility in their learning. This year marks an important stage in their journey, as they start to expand their knowledge across a broad range of subjects, while also continuing to nurture their curiosity and enthusiasm.

 

A Diverse and Engaging Curriculum

In Year 4, our curriculum is designed to be diverse, stimulating, and challenging. The focus is on building a solid foundation in core subjects, while encouraging pupils to explore new areas of interest.

  • English: Through engaging with a wide variety of texts, Year 4 pupils work on developing their reading comprehension and analytical skills. Writing becomes more structured and creative, as pupils learn to use descriptive language, varied sentence structures, and accurate grammar. Year 4 also includes plenty of opportunities for creative writing, such as story-building exercises and poetry.
  • Mathematics: Our Year 4 curriculum in Maths builds on previous learning, introducing pupils to more complex concepts such as fractions, decimals, and area calculations. They also start exploring topics like geometry and begin developing skills in problem-solving and reasoning. Hands-on activities and visual aids make learning enjoyable and accessible, helping pupils gain confidence in their mathematical abilities.
  • Science: In Science, Year 4 pupils dive into exciting topics such as habitats, states of matter, and the human body. Through practical experiments, pupils develop a solid understanding of the scientific method, learning to observe, hypothesize, and draw conclusions. These interactive lessons foster a love of inquiry and help pupils grasp complex concepts in an engaging way.

 

Building Creativity and Artistic Skills

Creativity is highly encouraged in Year 4, as we believe it is a vital part of a well-rounded education. Art lessons provide pupils with the opportunity to explore different styles, techniques, and mediums. During Curriculum Enrichment Week, Year 4 pupils often study a particular artist, giving them a chance to immerse themselves in the artist’s style and works – this is done through hands-on workshops and support from local artists.

 

Sports and Physical Development

Physical activity is an essential aspect of Year 4 at Windrush Valley Prep School. The pupils participate in regular PE sessions, where they learn various sports and develop fundamental athletic skills. In addition, they take part in inter-house competitions, which foster teamwork, resilience, and a healthy competitive spirit. The year also includes a range of sporting events, including the much-anticipated Sports Day, where pupils have the chance to showcase their abilities and earn points for their houses.

 

Embracing New Experiences and Growing Together

Throughout the year, Year 4 pupils participate in various extracurricular activities, field trips, and charity events that enrich their learning experience and contribute to their personal growth. Highlights include sporting events and special charity days where pupils dress up, engage in fun activities, and learn about the importance of giving back to the community. These experiences help pupils develop strong bonds with their peers and foster a sense of responsibility and empathy.

 

Preparing for Future Success

Year 4 is a pivotal year at Windrush Valley Prep School. As pupils build confidence, develop new skills, and embrace challenges, they are well-prepared to transition into the upper years of Key Stage 2. With guidance from dedicated teachers and support from their classmates, Year 4 pupils continue to grow into well-rounded, resilient individuals who are ready to take on the adventures that lie ahead in Year 5 and beyond.