Welcome to Robins, our Yr1/2 class.  Robins is taught by Miss Shirfield  and Miss Titchener and supported by Miss Casey, Miss Allday, Mr Mackay and Miss Mitchell. 

Welcome to Robins Class, where learning is exciting, creative and full of opportunities to explore the world around us. We are a mixed Year 1 and Year 2 class, following a two-year rolling curriculum that enables children to build knowledge, skills and confidence across all subjects.

Our curriculum is designed to be engaging, hands-on and memorable, helping children become curious learners who love to ask questions, solve problems and discover new things.

English

In Robins, we follow the Hampshire English Model, using high-quality texts to develop reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Children learn to write for a range of purposes and audiences, building their vocabulary, spelling, grammar and confidence as writers.

Reading is at the heart of everything we do, and we aim to foster a lifelong love of books and storytelling.

Phonics

At St Nicholas, we follow the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised phonics programme. Through daily, engaging phonics lessons, children learn to read and write with increasing confidence and fluency.

Children are taught new sounds, practise reading and spelling words and apply their phonics knowledge through carefully matched reading books. Regular assessment ensures that every child receives the support they need to become successful readers.

Reading practice sessions take place throughout the week, giving children opportunities to develop their decoding, prosody (expression) and comprehension skills. Our aim is for every child to become a confident, enthusiastic reader who develops a lifelong love of books.

Mathematics

We follow the White Rose Maths scheme alongside Mastering Number, helping children develop a strong understanding of number, fluency and problem-solving. Through practical resources, reasoning activities and mathematical discussions, children build confidence and resilience in mathematics.

Discovering the Past

Our History curriculum takes children on exciting journeys through time. Topics include:

• The History of Toys
• The Great Fire of London
• Famous Explorers
• Significant Historical Figures
• Astronauts and the Moon Landing
• The History of Our School

Children learn how the world has changed over time and how important people and events have shaped the society we live in today.

Exploring Our World

Through Geography, children develop an understanding of their local area and the wider world. They investigate:

• Our school and local community
• Europe and its physical features
• Continents and oceans
• Mexico
• Coastal environments
• Human and physical geography

Children learn valuable map skills while developing an appreciation of different places, cultures and environments.

Religious Education

Our RE curriculum encourages children to think deeply about beliefs, identity, community and morality. Children explore Christianity and Judaism through stories, celebrations, traditions and key beliefs, whilst learning to respect and value different worldviews.

Science

Science lessons encourage children to investigate, question and explore through hands-on learning. Topics include:

• Animals and habitats
• Plants and growth
• Materials and their properties
• Nutrition and healthy living
• Seasons and weather
• Living things and conservation

Children develop scientific enquiry skills through observing, predicting, testing and recording their findings.

Art and Design

Creativity flourishes in Robins Class. Children study a wide range of artists, architects and designers, including:

• James Brunt
• Kehinde Wiley
• Dale Chihuly
• J. M. W. Turner
• Stephen Wiltshire
• Clara Peeters
• Roy Lichtenstein
• James Rizzi
• Zaha Hadid

Using drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, printmaking and mixed media, children experiment with techniques and create their own unique pieces of artwork.

Design and Technology

Children become designers, engineers and creators through practical DT projects. They have opportunities to:

• Build structures and bridges
• Design and prepare food products
• Work with textiles and sewing
• Create clay sculptures
• Explore printing techniques
• Design products and packaging

These projects develop creativity, problem-solving and practical skills.

Computing

Our computing curriculum equips children with the knowledge and skills needed in a digital world. Children learn about:

• Technology and digital systems
• Digital art, photography and music
• Data handling and pictograms
• Programming robots
• Algorithms and coding
• Online safety and digital wellbeing

Personal Development

Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education is woven throughout school life. Children learn about:

• Friendships and relationships
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Growing up and keeping safe
• Economic wellbeing and money
• Digital citizenship
• Shared responsibility and caring for our world

Physical Education

PE lessons help children develop fundamental movement skills, teamwork and confidence. Through a range of sports, games and physical activities, children learn the importance of staying active and leading healthy lifestyles.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

At St Nicholas, we believe the best learning is often memorable learning. Robins Class enjoys practical investigations, creative projects, outdoor learning, visitors, themed days and enrichment opportunities that bring our curriculum to life.

We are incredibly proud of our Robins. Every day, we encourage our children to be curious, resilient, respectful and ambitious as they spread their wings and soar in their learning journey. 🐦✨