Welcome to Apple Class
Welcome to Apple Class! We are delighted to welcome your child to Year 1 as they continue their learning journey beyond the Early Years Foundation Stage. Year 1 is an exciting year where children build on the skills, confidence and independence they developed in Reception while becoming increasingly resilient and enthusiastic learners.
In Apple Class, we provide a happy, caring and stimulating learning environment where every child is encouraged to achieve their very best. As children move into Key Stage 1, lessons become a little more structured whilst remaining practical, engaging and enjoyable. We support every child to develop confidence, curiosity and independence as they continue to Belong, Believe and Be the Best They Can Be.
Throughout the year, children enjoy a broad and exciting curriculum including English, Mathematics, Phonics, Science, History, Geography, Art, Computing, Music, RE and PSHE. Through practical experiences, educational visits and outdoor learning, we inspire children to develop a lifelong love of learning.
Meet the Team
- Mr Smith – Class Teacher
- Mrs Gunraj – PPA and Forest School (Fridays)
- Ms Doughty – Teaching Assistant
- Ms Christian – Teaching Assistant
PE
Our PE lessons take place every Monday and Thursday.
Children should come to school wearing their full PE kit on these days:
- Red KWPS PE T-shirt
- Red school jumper or cardigan
- Black shorts
- Black tracksuit bottoms (weather dependent)
- Black trainers
For gymnastics, dance and some indoor activities, children will work barefoot where appropriate. Please ensure all clothing is clearly named and earrings are removed before school on PE days.
Forest School
During Spring 2, Apple Class takes part in weekly Forest School sessions linked to our learning about nature, new life and growth, these sessions provide exciting opportunities for children to explore the outdoors, develop teamwork and problem-solving skills, and build confidence through hands-on experiences in the natural environment.
Our Learning
Learning in Apple Class is exciting, practical and builds upon the excellent foundations established in Reception.
Phonics
We follow the FFT Success for All Phonics programme, helping children become confident, fluent readers. Lessons follow a structured approach of reviewing previous learning, teaching new sounds, practising, applying and revisiting knowledge. Children regularly develop their skills in segmenting and blending words for reading and spelling.
Reading
Reading is at the heart of everything we do. Children read every day through shared, guided, paired and independent reading opportunities. We encourage daily reading at home to develop fluency, comprehension and a lifelong love of books. Carefully selected texts help to broaden vocabulary and deepen children's understanding.
English
Our English curriculum develops confident writers through exciting texts and engaging learning experiences. Throughout the year, children write stories, poems, recounts and non-fiction pieces while continuing to develop handwriting, spelling, punctuation and presentation. Regular independent writing opportunities allow children to apply the skills they have learned with increasing confidence.
Mathematics
We follow the White Rose Maths curriculum, helping children develop a secure understanding of number through carefully sequenced lessons. Daily opportunities to practise fluency, reasoning and problem-solving help children build confidence and enjoyment in mathematics.
Health and Wellbeing
Children's wellbeing is central to life in Apple Class. We encourage children to stay active throughout the day through movement breaks, active learning opportunities and regular physical activity, supporting both their physical health and emotional wellbeing.
Homework
We believe that regular practice at home helps children develop confidence and independence.
Reading
Children should read for 5–10 minutes every evening. Please sign your child's Reading Record after each reading session and return their reading pack to school each day.
Phonics and Spellings
Weekly phonics and spelling activities are sent home to reinforce the sounds and tricky words taught in class. Children may also be given "Wow Words" to discuss and use in their speaking and writing.
Working Together
We value the strong partnership between home and school and believe children achieve their very best when we work together. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us through Class Dojo or via the school office.
We look forward to making Year 1 a happy, exciting and successful year for every child.
The Apple Class Team
Our Learning Environment
Knowledge Organisers
Class information