Welcome to Year One
Caring Respect Empathy Courage Resilience
Attendance is key to academic success and social development.
Please aim for your child to be in school EVERY day!
Our Year One Team
Teacher – Miss Cook
Learning Assistant Level 3 –Mr Woods
Learning Assistants Level 2 Mrs Beech and Miss Moore
The Year One classroom is a friendly, nurturing environment where every child is important and enabled to shine. Respect and caring attitudes flourish and supportive relationships underpin all that we do. Throughout Year One, children build on the knowledge they have gained during the Early Years and continue to develop their independence. Lessons are exciting, filled with practical experiences to engage and motivate the children to always want to learn more. In Year One, we are readers! Children are encouraged to pick up a book and explore the wonders of the world through exciting stories, pictures and facts. With the support of family at home, we endeavour for children to develop confidence, fluency and a love of reading. Mental health and well-being are a high priority in Year One. We work hard to foster resilience and positive self-esteem and support children in preparing for their transition to Year Two.
Our school day:
Doors open 8:45am and registration closes at 8.55am. Your child must be in school by 8.55am.
The school day ends at 3:15pm. Your child will enter and leave school via the shared Reception and Y1 gate.
Safeguarding is high priority at Merton Bank so please understand we may need to check if someone else is picking your child up. Please always inform the office if someone new is collecting. Thank you for your understanding with this.
Important things to remember for a successful year ahead:
You may wish to provide a healthy snack for your child to eat at 10:00am playtime. Lunch will be at 12:00pm.
This term we have PE every Monday – please ensure that your child attends school on these days in their PE kit. On these days children must wear the following PE uniform: white t-shirt and black shorts. Black jogging bottoms and jumper for the colder months.
Reading in Key Stage One:
At Merton Bank, we aim for all our children to become fluent, confident readers who are passionate about reading. Children who read regularly or are read to regularly have the opportunity to open the doors to so many different worlds!
In Key Stage One, we use Read Write Inc. Phonics to give your child the best possible start with their reading journey. Your child will bring a book bag book home on a Monday. This will be changed every Monday.
Key Resources:
Here is an overview of our Spring 1 learning in Year 1
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Take a look at some of the fantastic learning in Y1 in Spring term 1 2026
Maths
Our Year 1 explorers turned into math magicians! This week, we have been diligently mastering number formation up to 20, ensuring that each child gains confidence in writing and recognising numbers accurately. We’ve been exploring with numicon, which makes addition not only educational but also incredibly fun. By using these engaging tools, our little learners are transforming numbers into exciting puzzles, working collaboratively to solve them and sharing their strategies with one another.
In addition to our number work, we have been focusing on part-part-whole models to support our understanding of addition and subtraction. These visual aids have helped the children conceptualise how numbers can be broken down and combined. To deepen our understanding, we have been using a variety of manipulatives, such as counters and blocks, allowing the children to physically represent their calculations. This hands-on approach has made learning feel more dynamic and interactive, fostering a love for maths in our classroom!
English
Our Year 1 children have been continuing to work with the story of Alfie’s Star. They have focused on enhancing their vocabulary by identifying and using adjectives to describe characters and settings, as well as adverbs to add detail to their verbs. The children have been encouraged to construct sentences of three, which helps them convey more information effectively. Additionally, they have engaged in activities that involve alliteration, allowing them to play with sounds and create fun phrases.
In our whole class reading sessions, we have been exploring a wide range of both fiction and non-fiction texts. The children have participated in activities such as putting sections of stories into order to aid their comprehension, selecting the three most important parts of the texts to summarise key ideas, creating hashtags that capture the essence of the stories, and answering questions to test their understanding. This multifaceted approach not only boosts their reading skills but also fosters a love for books and storytelling.
Science
We have been exploring a wide variety of different everyday materials found in our homes and surroundings. Throughout this exploration, we have been learning how to identify these materials effectively, and distinguish clearly between what they are made from and the specific material itself. For instance, we can differentiate between plastic, wood, metal, and fabric, and understand their unique characteristics.
In addition to identification, we have also learnt to describe the properties of various everyday materials. This includes discussing attributes such as texture, flexibility, durability, and conductivity. By understanding these properties, we can better relate them to their uses in our daily lives.
Moreover, we have engaged in activities that help us learn what constitutes natural materials, such as cotton, wood, and stone, and what defines man-made materials, like glass, synthetic fibres, and plastics. This distinction is crucial as it allows us to appreciate the source of materials and their impact on the environment.
We have also conducted experiments to predict which objects will sink or float when placed in water. This hands-on learning experience has enhanced our understanding of density and buoyancy, as we make educated guesses based on the materials of the objects.
Finally, we have explored what materials are best suited for various objects and the reasons behind these choices. For instance, we discovered that rubber is ideal for making tyres due to its durability and grip on the road, while glass is preferable for windows because of its transparency and ability to provide insulation. This knowledge helps us appreciate the thoughtful design behind the everyday items we use.
Religious Education
In Religious Education, we have learnt about some important beliefs in Islam.
Firstly, we know that Muslims believe in one God, who is known as Allah. They also hold the belief that the world was created by God. This recognition leads to discussions about why Muslims might value the natural world and its preservation.
Islam teaches that humans should act as caretakers or stewards, referred to as Khalifahs, of the planet. This idea suggests that Muslims might demonstrate their respect for God by caring for the natural environment. One way they can do this is by reflecting on their own experiences and feelings about the natural world, and observing how humans treat it.
- In discussions, students can talk about their own experiences with nature and highlight their observations on humanity's impact on it.
- Moreover, they can reflect on how they treat the natural world and consider whether they have a duty to take care of it.
Art
This term, we have been inspired by the renowned artist Rene Brigette, delving into the nuances of their artistic style. We began by exploring various pieces from Brigette's portfolio, engaging in thoughtful discussions about our individual responses to their work. Each children shared insights, articulating what elements resonated with them and which aspects they found less appealing, encouraging a rich exchange of ideas.
In addition to discussing the artwork, we ventured into the fundamentals of colour theory by examining the colour wheel. This exploration involved hands-on activities using a variety of tools such as paint brushes, sponges, and even our fingers to create textures and effects. The children experimented with mixing colours and applying them in creative ways to understand how different hues can influence the mood and impact of a piece.
Building on our exploration of colour, we then moved on to planning our own designs inspired by Rene Brigette. Each child was tasked with creating a unique repeating pattern that reflected their personal aesthetic while integrating elements reminiscent of Brigette's style. This process not only encouraged creativity but also fostered skills in design and pattern-making, allowing students to express their individuality through art.
PE
The children have moved on from team building to ball skills, demonstrating their progress and enthusiasm for developing new abilities. During the lessons, they are using a range of different throwing and catching techniques, such as overarm and underarm throws, as well as varying their catches by using one or two hands. They continue to work on team building by collaborating in pairs and small groups, enhancing their communication skills and encouraging teamwork as they practice these new techniques.
Curriculum Enrichment opportunity: Forest School
We have been actively participating in engaging forest school sessions, which take place either in the great outdoors amidst the natural beauty of our forest or in an indoor space. During these sessions, the children have immersed themselves in a wide variety of team-building games and activities that are thoughtfully linked to their curriculum, enhancing their learning through collaborative play and exploration.
These activities not only foster teamwork and communication skills but also reinforce concepts from subjects such as science, mathematics, and creative arts. Through hands-on experiences, the children are able to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, making their learning both fun and memorable.
Take a look at some of the fantastic learning in Y1 in Autumn term 2 2025
English
We are working on the Alfie's Star text to help allow the children to create their own version of the story. We have also had a different focus book each week for whole class reading lessons, such as poetry and non-fiction books. The children will also be focussing on the basic skills of handwriting, punctuation and grammar.
Maths Mastery
We continue to review our learning of place value upto 10. To deepen the children's understanding of numbers upto 10, we have now introduced one more, one less and addition and subtraction. We are using the concrete equipment such as blocks, ten frames and numicon to support our learning.
Science
We are learning about animals including humans. Our trip to Chester Zoo fully supported our learning with lots of amazing in person experiences with the animals. We have been increasing our understanding of different animal habitats as well as making seed bombs to support our forest school area. We are learning about our senses such as our sight, hearing, taste and touch. We are doing lots of practical activities to support this in the classroom as well.
Religious Education
Jesus is very important to Christians because they believe he is the Son of God. In RE, we learn that Jesus was born in a special way, which is why the Nativity story is so important. At Christmas, Christians remember how Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem and how baby Jesus was born in a stable. His birth is seen as a gift from God. Christians believe Jesus grew up to teach people how to be kind, loving, and helpful. They follow his example and try to live the way he taught. For Christians, Jesus shows God’s love for everyone.
Our Christmas performance allowed the children to immerse themselves into the Nativity story further.
Music
We have learnt about how to get singing, including how to warm up our bodies and our voices correctly. We have learnt the name song, Babushka and Little Angel gets her wings.
Alongside this, the children learnt lots of new songs and performed them to all the grown ups in our Christmas performance.
Art
This term we are inspired by artist Clare Burchell and her amazing prints. We are using these ideas to make our Christmas card designs. The children have got to experience with different materials such as potatoes to print their designs with. We can't wait to share our finished designs with everyone.
PE
The children have worked on lots of team building games within PE. We have done a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities using different equipment. Our focus is to improve working as a team as well as spatial awareness and gross motor skills.
My Happy Minds
In the myHappyminds program, we have been learning all about Celebrate and the importance of recognising our own strengths. We talked about the special qualities that make each of us unique and how celebrating them can help us feel more confident and positive. We also explored the idea of a safe place—somewhere we can imagine or go to when we need to feel calm and secure. Everyone shared different safe places, such as a cosy bedroom, a quiet garden, or a favourite spot at home. Learning about Celebrate and safe places has helped us understand ourselves better and support our wellbeing.
Curriculum enhancement Opportunity: Chester Zoo activity
We had an exciting day out at Chester Zoo with Year 1. As soon as we arrived, everyone was buzzing with energy, eager to explore. First, we visited the monkeys and watched them swing and climb with incredible speed. Then we headed to the penguins, who waddled and splashed around, making us all laugh. After that, we walked through the bird area, spotting bright feathers and listening to their cheerful songs. Throughout the trip, the children asked brilliant questions and showed great curiosity. It was a fun, memorable adventure where we learned so much about the different animals we met. This has also helped our wider curriculum learning in Science greatly.
Take a look at some of the exciting learning in Y1 in Autumn term 2025
Talk for writing- The Three Little Pigs
We are working on the text of the 3 little pigs to inspire the children to create their own tales related to the story. We are also focussing on our basic skills of handwriting, grammar and punctuation.
Math's mastery
We are working on place value up to 10. The children are raising their awareness of what the number means. We are learning to make up the numbers with different objects as well as learning to write the numbers and numbers as words.
Science
We are learning about the 4 seasons alongside which months are included in each. We are also doing an investigation about the amount of rainfall we have during the unit as well.
Geography
We will learn about the world and where we live. We will explore the places in our area. The children will also have a chance to go on a 'field trip' out into the playground and think about what other things they would like there. To finish we will design our own new playground maps with new feature ideas.
PE
We will be focussing on fundamentals of movement patterns such as jumping and hopping as well team building games.
Religious Education
Our theme we will investigate is 'What do people say about God?’. As part of this we will be learning about Christianity and why Christians call God a Father.
Computing
We will be developing our mouse skills whilst learning to navigate around a computer completing a variety of tasks.
Music
This term we will have a Focus on the song ‘Hey you’. Using this song as inspiration we will work on learning the difference between pitch, rhythm and pulse in music.
Art
We will be using investigating the work of artists Sophie Ryder and Henry Moore as part of our project. We will then use this as inspiration to create our own models.
Forest school
During forest school the children are incorporating learning from other subjects such as maths and taking it into the forest. The children count leaves, make structures and work on team building.
My Happy Minds (PSHE)
My Happy Minds is new to the school this term. The children will be following the scheme for their PSHE lessons and our first topic is 'Meet my brain', where we will explore our brain and how it is made up.
Read, Write, Inc. Videos:
ar - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/JvCWs0Jq/Pcke3Jf4
or - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/QHkYaKlj/up7bHjAi
air - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/IOLzIV70/xyfu09AK
ir - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/ZBk5wq2Q/qJLRuYlL
ou - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/8JTzOdly/AIQVdbLN
oy - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/cToj3a6U/cYiBqjzR
ea - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/P2wrCfqs/1eet4NXQ
oi - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/1uJN7VCT/NXOsn0j9
a-e - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/cznjPmR5/AqvJNhl8
i-e - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/gXHsC2yi/YReJA5Aa
o-e - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/2g15CB9w/6fhCelJf
u-e - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/2g15CB9w/6fhCelJf
aw - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/9tYRl6Nb/dvVzN7dv
ur - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/NxOdnov5/vyJtLb7Q
er - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/m08wqyxK/dahPdC0S
ow - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/s6DpVfad/eoupDVx0
ai - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/y4XJp3ST/NNYluCAw
oa - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/eFNIvVOk/m2nuHmYz
ew - https://schools.ruthmiskin.com/training/view/AH7JktGE/RroPiVD7
