Bluebell Class - Year 1 and Year 2

 

Mrs S Bradford

​A very warm welcome to Bluebell Class!

We are a class of 31 wonderful Year 1 pupils, taught by myself, (Mrs Bradford) and supported by Miss King. Our classroom is located near the main entrance to school, just off the KS1 assembly hall.

We are really looking forward to getting to know the children and watching them grow throughout their Year 1 journey. Moving from Reception into Year 1 is an exciting step, and we will work together to ensure the children feel happy, settled and ready to learn, while developing their independence, resilience and confidence.

Phonics and Reading

Phonics continues to be a very important part of Year 1. We will follow the Little Wandle programme and practise reading and spelling words containing the sounds we have been learning.

We will also spend lots of time developing reading fluency, accuracy and comprehension. Regular reading at home makes such a difference, and we really appreciate your support with this.

Continuous Provision

The children will continue to have access to continuous provision opportunities throughout the day. These activities will allow them to revisit and practise important skills, apply their learning independently and explore their interests.

We are very lucky to have an outdoor area which is used throughout the year. Please ensure that your child has suitable outdoor clothing so that they can comfortably access this provision whatever the weather.

Other Important Information

· PE Days:

Our PE days are Tuesdays and Thursdays.

On these days, children should come to school wearing their PE kit.

Please make sure that all items of clothing, including PE kit and outdoor clothing, are clearly labelled with your child's name.

· Class Dojo:

This is how we will share messages, reminders and information with you throughout the year.

We love being able to share some of the children's learning and special moments with you, so please keep an eye on our class updates.

· Homework & Reading:

Little Wandle phonics homework sheets will be sent home weekly. These will give you an opportunity to practise the sounds, words and skills that your child has been learning in school.

Your child will also bring home a phonics reading book. We ask that you record in their reading planner when they have read to you. To help develop fluency and confidence, we encourage

children to read their phonics book more than once before changing it. Re-reading a familiar book helps children to become more fluent and expressive readers.

We ask that children read their phonics book at least three times a week.

Alongside their phonics book, children will also bring home a choice book. This is a book for you to enjoy together and share with an adult. It doesn't need to be read independently – sharing stories, talking about pictures and discussing new vocabulary are all fantastic ways to develop a love of reading.

Additional activities may be sent home when appropriate.

· Snack time and water bottles:

If your child has milk through the Cool Milk scheme, they will have this at playtime.

Children should bring a water bottle to school, and we kindly ask that this contains water only.

In KS1, the children are provided with fruit each day. If your child would prefer, they may bring a suitable fruit snack from home.

Helping Your Child Settle in Year 1

In Year 1, we will encourage the children to become increasingly independent with things such as organising their belongings, looking after their equipment and taking responsibility for their learning.

At home, you can support this by encouraging your child to:

· Practise putting on and fastening their coat.

· Look after and organise their own belongings.

· Read regularly and talk about the books they are reading.

· Talk about their day and share what they have been learning.

· Have a go at tasks independently before asking for help.

Most importantly, please continue to talk positively about school and celebrate your child's efforts, rather than worrying about getting everything right. We want the children to develop a love of learning and the confidence to have a go.

Working Together

We are always happy to help. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to speak with me or message on Class Dojo.

Thank you

Mrs Bradford