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.

hill heores.png

Spring 2

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you are well. I am pleased to share an overview of our learning for Spring 2.

In English, we will be exploring the story Supertato: Veggies Assemble, focusing on the “Supertato beats the monster” theme. The children will be developing their storytelling skills using an action toolkit to help them build exciting narratives, describe characters, and sequence events clearly.

In Maths, we will be continuing our work on addition and subtraction within 40, ensuring children are confident with number facts and methods. We will also begin to introduce early multiplication, helping children understand grouping and repeated addition.

In Art, we will be learning how to combine different materials to create collages. We will take inspiration from artists such as Erin Anfinson and Eric Carle, exploring texture, layering, and creativity in our own artwork.

In Geography, we will be learning about the weather at the equator. Children will explore what the weather is like in this region and how it compares to where we live.

In PSHRE, our focus will be on media literacy and digital resilience. We will discuss how to stay safe online, understand digital content, and develop healthy habits when using technology.

In Computing, we will be learning about data and information, including how information can be collected, sorted, and used.

In RE, we will be studying Judaism, learning about beliefs, traditions, and important symbols within the religion.

In Science, we will explore the question: “Are all animals the same?” Children will learn to identify and compare different types of animals, looking at their features, habitats, and diets.

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-

24/2/26- Inayah A

3/3/26-Musa Y

10/3/26- Amelia

17/3/26- Ayat A

24/3/26- Mustafa A

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! 

1817567037_c5b7080541e806aa5adb3e821afb3336_IMG_5361.jpg

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.