Year 1 is an important and exciting stage in children's education as they move from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) into Key Stage 1, building upon the knowledge, skills and experiences developed during Reception.
At Otterburn Primary School & Nursery, we provide a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum that supports children through this transition while recognising their individual starting points and developmental needs. We encourage pupils to become curious, confident and enthusiastic learners who enjoy exploring new ideas, asking questions and developing their understanding of the world around them.
Throughout Year 1, children develop increasingly secure foundations in reading, writing and mathematics. Daily phonics teaching supports children in developing the skills needed to become confident and fluent readers, alongside opportunities to enjoy stories, explore high-quality texts and develop a love of reading.
In writing, children build upon their early mark-making experiences, developing letter formation, spelling, sentence construction and the confidence to communicate their ideas in written form. In mathematics, children develop their understanding of number, place value, addition, subtraction, shape and measures through practical activities, discussion and carefully sequenced teaching.
We recognise that the transition from Reception to Year 1 is a gradual process. Practical experiences, purposeful play, exploration and opportunities for independent learning continue to play an important role alongside increasingly structured teaching. Our approach supports children in developing concentration, independence, resilience and positive attitudes towards learning.
Alongside their academic development, children have opportunities to strengthen their communication, teamwork and social skills through collaborative activities, creative experiences and contributions to school life. We aim to ensure that every child feels confident, supported and ready to embrace new challenges as they progress through Key Stage 1.
Inclusion and Individual Learning Needs
We recognise that children develop and learn at different rates and that not all pupils will be working at age-related expectations. Our teaching is adapted to reflect individual starting points, including the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
We maintain high aspirations for every child, providing appropriate support, challenge and opportunities to revisit and secure earlier learning where needed. This enables pupils to access a broad and ambitious curriculum, build upon their achievements and make progress from their individual starting points.
Our Curriculum Overviews
Our curriculum overviews help parents and carers understand what children will be learning throughout Year 1 and how their knowledge and skills will develop.
The Annual Curriculum Overview provides an at-a-glance summary of the subjects, topics and key learning planned across the autumn, spring and summer terms.
Our Termly Parent Curriculum Overviews provide further detail about children's learning, including key knowledge, vocabulary, connections between subjects and opportunities for practical learning and enrichment.
These documents outline our planned curriculum. Teaching is responsive to children's individual starting points and learning needs, ensuring appropriate support and challenge for all pupils.
Curriculum Documents 2026–2027
Year 1 Annual Curriculum Overview 2026–2027
This document provides an overview of the subjects, topics and key learning planned throughout the academic year.
Year 1 Autumn Term Parent Curriculum Overview 2026–2027
This document provides further information about the learning planned for the autumn term, including curriculum connections, key knowledge and enrichment opportunities.