In Class 1 we have only 2 rules which the children learn and put into practise as they learn and play.

Be safe- we will look after ourselves and our friends by making the right choices about where and how we play

Be happy – we will be kind and helpful to others, make the right choices about our behaviour and then we will be happy and so will those around us

EXPECTATIONS:

Independence

We try to instil in our children the importance of being independent when they can be, and to learn to be responsible for the things over which they have control. They can trust adults to support, guide and help them in all aspects of school their school life. We encourage a ‘have a go’ attitude, a culture of risk taking and perseverance.  From the beginning children are taught the skills and strategies to manage their own routines and possessions. Our expectation is that your child will be able to function independently at this stage of their education with ease, ownership of their day and a sense of achievement.

Learning

In Class 1 we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, the National Curriculum for Year 1 and the International Primary Curriculum

The Early Years curriculum and the IPC link closely together and have the same ethos relating to learning through play.

We teach Philosophy as a stand-alone lesson and encourage the children to use philosophical thinking in their learning and play.

Children are taught strategies and skills to enable them to be as independent in their learning as much as they can be at this stage of their education.  They are expected to take ownership of their learning and not rely on an adult giving them the answer they need straight away.  We teach the language and vocabulary for them to attempt problem solving methods of learning.

Behaviour

We expect our pupils to be polite and respectful to all members of our school community. If your child is involved in any kind of behaviour which warrants intervention by an adult, it will be dealt with in school as a matter of course.  Minor issues are best dealt with quickly so that the children can carry on with their day. The teacher will only contact you if she feels that it is something which should be shared with you as a parent and/or requires your support.

Help at home

Please spend time with your child reading.  Follow the link to English for additional information about helping your child learning to read.  Please provide a sturdy plastic wallet for your child’s reading book and diary.

Your child will be given a small pot to take home every day with letters and numbers to learn.

My Little Reader is a little book which follows class lessons. You will be able to see what your child is learning, which will enable you to support our teaching of phonics.

Occasionally your child will bring home an activity to do which links to our topic work. Our expectation is that the standard of home work is the same as in school.  Please use a writing pencil not crayons and pens.

Meeting with the teacher

If you have information which might affect your child during the day, then please inform the adults on gate duty and they will pass on any messages.  If you would like to talk to the teacher, please phone the office to make an appointment after school.

Please name all items and belongings.

Please provide a fresh bottle of water and a healthy mid-morning snack each day.

Please provide a sun hat in the summer. We do not put sun cream on children, but they can apply it themselves if you wish.

Any medical needs should be discussed with the teacher.  An up to date inhaler is to be kept in school at all times.

Lastly

Please inform the teacher of any changes in your home life that might affect the happiness and wellbeing of your child.  If we are informed, we are prepared!  We are here to care and support your child while they are not with you.