Hello everyone,
The children had a wonderful time celebrating Spanish Day yesterday! They thoroughly enjoyed the Spanish-style lunch and especially loved their Flamenco dance lesson in the afternoon. We hope you enjoy looking through the photos below.
In English, we have continued our work based on Lost and Found by Oliver Jeffers. The children have been working hard on writing thoughtful letters of advice to the boy in the story, suggesting kind ways he could help the lost penguin. They also created clear and helpful instructions on how to support someone who is lost. It has been lovely to see their creativity and effort in their writing.
In Phonics, we are revising Phase 5 sounds and tricky words in preparation for the Phonics Screening Check in June. The children are building confidence with alternative spellings and recognising tricky words that don’t always follow usual phonetic patterns. To support this, spellings for this half term will focus on Phase 5 sounds and tricky words.
In Maths, the children have been exploring equal groups and learning about arrays and doubles. They have enjoyed applying their understanding through practical activities and hands-on resources.
In History, the children enjoyed learning about the life of Queen Victoria. They explored her life, family, and many responsibilities, and were particularly interested in finding out about Buckingham Palace and its many rooms.
Next Week
Maths – The children will begin a new topic on fractions. They will recognise and find a half of an object or shape, and a half of a quantity.
English – The children will create a fact file about Antarctic creatures.
Art – As part of their new topic, ‘Sculpture and 3D: Paper Play’, the children will shape paper to create 3D drawings.
History – The children will learn about the life of Queen Elizabeth I.
Science – The children will plant a variety of seeds, vegetables, and fruits.
PSHE – They will explore friendships and what makes a good friend.
RE – The children will discuss and write about books that are special to them.
Spellings for next Friday’s test:
Group 1: like, time, prize, slide, home, woke, note, stone,
Tricky words: were, here
Group 2: sea, seat, read, heap
Tricky word: was
Reminder
Phonics Home Learning
A letter was emailed this week in regards to the Phonics Screening Test that takes place in June. To get the children used to the format, I will be sending home a weekly practice sheet for them to complete at home. This involves simply asking your child to add the sound buttons on each word (real and nonsense) and allowing them to read the words. I do not need you to send the sheets back to school; please keep them at home and use them to look back over. Thank you for your continued support.
Phonics Booster
For those children who have received a Phonic Booster letter, these 20-minute sessions will begin on Tuesday 28th April, running from 8:20–8:45am.
Mrs Blatch or I will meet the children at the front office. Please ensure that the reply slip is returned next week.
Quiz Night Saturday 9th May
Get your thinking caps ready for our PTA Quiz Night on Saturday 9th May 2026! It promises to be a fantastic evening of fun, laughter and a little bit of healthy rivalry. It would be brilliant to see as many of you there as possible—whether you're in it to win it or just in it for the laughs!
Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable weekend.
The Year 1 Team
