Welcome to Year 2!
In Year 2, we embark on the second part of an exciting two-year learning cycle (Cycle A or B). This year we are on Cycle A. Our curriculum is carefully designed to build on the foundations set in Year 1, allowing children to deepen their understanding and skills across all subjects. We emphasize a hands-on approach to learning, both inside and outside the classroom, ensuring that children remain engaged and excited about their education. Regular outdoor activities and experiential learning opportunities bring our topics to life in meaningful ways.
Snack and Chat
After morning break, children take part in a Snack and Chat session. This provides a valuable opportunity for them to share ideas, listen to others, and practise their speaking and listening skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. These discussions help children develop confidence in expressing themselves, while also strengthening their social skills and ability to engage in meaningful conversations.
Maths
In Maths, we develop a mastery approach to develop a deeper understanding of number and mathematical concepts. Through practical activities, problem-solving tasks, and collaborative learning, children build strong number sense and confidence in applying their skills to real-world problems.
In Year 2, Active Maths plays a special role in our learning. Every Friday, we take our maths lessons outdoors, whether in the school playground or the woodland area. These lessons combine physical activity with mathematical challenges, encouraging children to apply their skills in a dynamic and engaging environment. By using nature and outdoor spaces, children explore concepts like shape, measurement, and problem-solving in a practical and enjoyable way. This active approach not only reinforces their understanding but also promotes teamwork, creativity, and a love for learning maths!
NECTM Mastering Number
Each afternoon, children take part in a 20-minute Mastering Number session using the NECTM programme. These sessions are designed to secure fluency and deepen children’s understanding of number, helping them develop flexibility, recall, and confidence when working with mathematical ideas. This daily focus on number sense underpins and strengthens the rest of their mathematical learning.
Phonics
In Year 2, children participate in daily phonics lessons using our Super Sonic Phonics Friends scheme. This fun and interactive program is designed to enhance their fluency in reading and develop strong spelling skills. Through engaging activities and targeted practice, children build their confidence with sounds, blending, and segmenting. This helps them to become more fluent readers and accurate spellers. These daily sessions are an essential part of their literacy journey, supporting both their reading comprehension and writing skills.
Literacy
In Literacy, we explore a wide range of texts that are often linked to our current topic. We use the "Talk for Writing" approach, which encourages children to develop their writing through oral storytelling, drama, and shared writing experiences. This method supports children in crafting their own stories, reports, letters and poems, helping them to become confident and creative writers.
Foundation Subjects
Each week in Year 2, children engage in a variety of foundation subjects that broaden their knowledge and skills across the curriculum. These subjects include:
-
Science: Where children explore the natural world through experiments and hands-on investigations.
-
Geography and History: Focused on understanding the world around us, from local environments to global communities, and learning about key events and figures from the past.
-
Computing: Teaching children essential digital skills, from coding to online safety.
-
Religious Education (RE): Where they learn about different beliefs and values, fostering respect and understanding of various cultures.
-
Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education (PSHE): Supporting their emotional well-being, social skills, and understanding of health.
-
Physical Education (PE): Encouraging active participation and the development of physical skills, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles.
These subjects provide a well-rounded education, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the world.
Throughout the year, we ensure that learning is immersive, hands-on, and experience a range of school trips, making Year 2 an exciting and memorable stage of their learning journey!
