Primary at Richmond Park School
Year 1 — Key Stage 1 (Ages 5–6)
A Confident Step into Primary Learning
Year 1 marks an exciting new chapter in your child’s educational journey — the moment they step into Key Stage 1 and begin to experience the joy of more structured, purposeful learning.
Led by our Key Stage 1 Director, the KS1 team is made up of enthusiastic teachers and highly skilled native assistants who are passionate about guiding children through this important transition. Their expertise, warmth, and dedication create a nurturing environment where every child feels confident, supported, and celebrated for who they are.
Building on the strong foundations laid in the Early Years, pupils now move into more structured, subject‑based learning — yet the spirit of creativity, exploration, and hands‑on discovery remains at the heart of every lesson. Our classrooms are vibrant, engaging spaces where curiosity is encouraged, ideas are shared, and learning feels exciting and meaningful.
“Our goal is to create an atmosphere where every child feels happy, confident, and inspired to learn — because this is where their journey as independent learners truly begins.”
— KS1 Team
Where Foundations Become Futures
In Year 1, children continue to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Learning becomes more focused while still offering plenty of opportunities for imagination, collaboration, and real‑world experiences. Through stimulating topics and carefully designed activities, pupils develop essential early skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
With caring guidance and personalised support, children begin to see themselves as capable, independent learners — ready to explore the wider world of learning with enthusiasm, confidence, and a genuine love for discovery.
“Our goal is to create an atmosphere where every child feels happy, confident, and inspired to learn — because this is where their journey as independent learners truly begins.”
— KS1 Team
Learning in Year 1
In Year 1, children continue their learning journey through real-life experiences, hands‑on exploration, and meaningful conversations that spark imagination and deepen understanding. Every lesson is practical, active, and thoughtfully designed to nurture each child’s natural curiosity and creativity.
Guided by the English National Curriculum, Year 1 provides a clear, structured framework that ensures steady progression in knowledge, skills, and understanding across all subjects. Within this framework, our caring and dedicated teachers celebrate effort, encourage resilience, and inspire every child to achieve their personal best.
A Broad, Balanced, and Inspiring Curriculum
Learning in Year 1 is rich, varied, and exciting — offering children a wide range of subjects that build strong foundations for future success.
English
- Developing reading and writing confidence through phonics and imaginative story exploration
- Writing simple sentences using capital letters, finger spaces, and full stops
- Enjoying stories with familiar settings, playful rhymes, and engaging factual texts
Mathematics
- Understanding numbers to 20 and beyond
- Solving simple addition and subtraction problems
- Exploring shapes, measures, and coins through playful, hands‑on activities
Science
- Who Am I? – discovering the human body and senses
- Animal Bodies – comparing features of different animals
- Seasonal Changes – observing weather patterns throughout the year
Topic (History & Geography)
- Our School and Community – learning how people help us and exploring the local environment
Art
- Exploring textures, colour, and portrait techniques
- Working with a variety of materials to develop creativity and fine motor skills
PSHE
- Building friendship, kindness, and self‑awareness
- Understanding emotions and following the Richmond Park School Golden Rules
Specialist Subjects That Enrich Every Child’s Experience
Our specialist teachers bring expertise, passion, and creativity to dedicated lessons in:
- Spanish (Lengua y Cultura Española) – developing bilingual skills through reading, writing, and cultural projects
- Music – exploring rhythm, melody, and expression through instruments and song
- Computing – learning to use technology safely, confidently, and creatively
- Food Technology – discovering healthy eating, kitchen safety, and cultural diversity through hands‑on cooking
- Physical Education (PE) – building coordination, balance, teamwork, and a love of movement
- Swimming – developing water confidence and basic stroke techniques
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Richmond Park School, learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door — it expands into the world around us. Each term, children enjoy at least one carefully planned educational trip linked directly to their class topics. These experiences spark curiosity, deepen cultural awareness, and help pupils make meaningful connections between their learning and real life.
“Children remember what they experience — our school trips bring learning to life.”
— Year 1 Team
A Strong Home–School Partnership
In Year 1, collaboration between school and home remains a cornerstone of your child’s success. We believe that informed, engaged families create confident, motivated learners, which is why communication is clear, consistent, and accessible.
Parents stay connected through:
- Class Dojo – daily messages, photos, and classroom updates
- Curriculum Letters – outlining termly themes, goals, and key learning
- Parents Booking – easy online scheduling for meetings and extracurricular activities
- Reports – available anytime through the iSAMS Parent Portal
To support learning at home, children bring home reading books and weekly spellings, reinforcing the skills they develop in class.
Celebrating Success
In Year 1, every achievement matters. We encourage children to take pride in their progress, celebrate their strengths, and recognise the effort behind every milestone.
Success is celebrated through:
- Star of the Week awards
- House Points for effort, kindness, and teamworkg
- Golden Time to reward positive behaviour and hard work
These celebrations build motivation, boost self‑esteem, and strengthen each child’s sense of belonging within the school community.
“Our teachers know every child — their strengths, interests, and potential. That’s what makes our classrooms so special.”
— KS1 Team
Looking Ahead
By the end of Year 1, pupils have developed strong foundations in literacy, mathematics, and personal confidence. They become inquisitive, enthusiastic learners who approach challenges with independence and curiosity.
With these essential skills firmly in place, children move into Year 2 ready to embrace new opportunities, explore new ideas, and continue their exciting journey through Primary School.
Book a visit or contact us
We’d love to welcome you to Richmond Park School. Schedule your visit today!
