In the latest questionnaire sent home to parents, a lot of you asked about transition to Year 1. There are many things that we do to prepare your child for the move into KS1 but I am very aware that this may look different this year. If school re-opens while they are still in Reception, this is what will be in place:
- regular visits to the Year 1 classroom, in small groups, at set times
- free flow in to the KS1 shared area so that they can explore
- information evening for parents to make you aware of changes
- morning play times with KS1 to mix more with children out of their year group
- coming to more assemblies with the rest of the school
- focused transition afternoon where they all visit the Year 1 teacher for an afternoon, as a class
- once they start Year 1 in September, Mrs Burke visits them in Year 1 and they can have a wander back in to Reception every now and then
- Autumn term of Year 1 focuses on them still learning through play but balanced with the Year 1 curriculum
Many things will stay the same: some areas of provision, support for your child, individual needs being met; continuation of phonics teaching; and communication with parents. Even though, there are a lot of changes, many of them are practical arrangements and the rest is very gradual.
I understand that you may be anxious as transition arrangements may look a bit different this year; whatever happens, we will approach it in a way that means you and your child have as much chance as possible to explore any changes.
In the meantime, take a look at the class news and homework for Year 1 so you can see what they have been learning. Remember the age related expectations for all year groups are on the website, along with information about the National Curriculum; this might give you a broader picture of Year 1.
Once school re-opens, we will discuss transition further but I hope that this information answers some of your questions.
