Hill 1

We’re delighted to share the wonderful learning experiences our Year 1 children will enjoy this year. The year ahead promises to be exciting and enriching, filled with creativity, curiosity, and plenty of new discoveries. Supporting the children in their learning journey are Mrs Beard (Class Teacher), along with Miss Fisher and Mrs. Hussain (Teaching Assistants).

Hill Heroes

In Hill 1, we are proud to be Hill Heroes! We always try our best, show kindness, and look after one another. Being a Hill Hero means showing curiosity in our learning, resilience when things are tricky, and respect for everyone around us. Together, we make our classroom a happy and inspiring place to learn and grow.

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Summer 2

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am pleased to share an overview of our learning for Summer 2 .

Maths

In Maths, we will be developing our understanding of numbers up to 100, building confidence with counting, place value and problem solving. We will also explore time, money, mass, and volume and capacity through practical activities to help children apply their learning to everyday situations.

English

In English, we will be using the story Nobot the Robot to inspire our writing. Children will explore a ‘losing tale’ story structure, where a character loses something important and goes on a journey to find it. We will focus on building suspense, using exciting vocabulary and describing characters and settings in detail. Children will also practise retelling stories, sequencing events and writing simple sentences with correct punctuation.

Science

Our Science topic, Science Through Stories, uses engaging stories to introduce scientific ideas and encourage curiosity. Children will ask questions, make predictions and take part in simple investigations and observations to help them understand how and why things happen.

Art

In Art, children will explore 3D sculpture inspired by artist Chris Kenny. They will experiment with different materials, including recycled and found objects, to create imaginative sculptures while developing their creativity and design skills.

Geography

In Geography, our topic Do You Fancy a Trip to the Farm? will help children learn about settlements and farm environments. Children will use simple maps, symbols and directions to develop their geographical and navigation skills while exploring why people live in different places.

Computing

In Computing, children will learn how to program simple animations using basic coding commands. They will explore how to make characters move and change, helping them to develop logical thinking, problem-solving and early coding skills.

RE

In RE, we will be learning about Christianity and the importance of the church. Children will explore what a church is, why it is special to Christians and what happens inside a church through stories, discussion and creative activities.

As we approach the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check, it is essential that children are reading at home for at least 10 minutes every night. Regular reading practice is key to developing confidence, fluency, and accuracy in decoding words. The phonics screening check is designed to ensure children are developing these early reading skills and to identify any children who may need extra support .

Research and national guidance consistently highlight that strong reading skills are the foundation for all future learning, and children who read regularly are far more likely to reach their full academic potential .

For more information about the phonics screening check and how you can support your child at home, please visit:
https://home.oxfordowl.co.uk/year-1-phonics-screening-check/

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch.

Kind regards,
Mrs. Beard and Mrs. Hussain

RAISE assembly dates-

2nd June - Heena

9th June - Ameila H

16th June - Adam

23rd June - Iqra

30th June -Manahil

7th July - Safa

14th July - Milena

We’re looking forward to another fantastic half-term full of curiosity, creativity, and fun learning experiences. Thank you for your continued support — it really makes a difference! 

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Learning at home - How you can help

The Importance of Reading and Phonics

Reading at home is one of the most powerful ways to support your child’s learning. In the UK, only around 1 in 3 children (approximately 33%) say they enjoy reading in their free time, which shows how important it is for schools and families to work together to build positive reading habits.

Children who read regularly:

  • develop stronger reading and writing skills

  • build a wider vocabulary

  • gain confidence in speaking and understanding texts

  • perform better across all subjects, not just English

Just 5–10 minutes of reading each day can make a real difference. Reading does not need to be perfect — the most important thing is enjoyment and encouragement.

Phonics

Phonics is the foundation of early reading and writing. By practising letter sounds, blending, and recognising tricky words, children become more confident and fluent readers. Short, regular phonics practice at home helps reinforce what is taught in school.

Simple Ways to Support at Home

  • Read together every day, even for a short time

  • Talk about the book and ask questions about what has happened

  • Encourage your child to sound out words using phonics

  • Praise effort and progress to build confidence

Useful UK Phonics and Reading Websites

Suggested Reading Ideas

  • Traditional tales such as Goldilocks and the Three Bears

  • Simple non-fiction books about animals, space, or explorers

  • Picture books with repeated phrases

  • Early reading books matched to your child’s phonics level

Reading Records

Please remember to sign your child’s reading record and add a short comment. This helps us support your child’s progress and celebrate their achievements.