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Year 1 Ruby Class
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| Mrs Reed | Mrs Sherwood | Mrs Moth |
| Class Teacher | Teaching Assistant | Teaching Assistant |
Summer Term One
Ruby Class enjoyed a truly memorable visit to Birdworld, where the children represented the school beautifully from start to finish. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and excellent behaviour shone throughout the day, and they impressed everyone with the thoughtful questions they asked and the way they explored each area with genuine interest.
From the moment we arrived, the children were captivated by the incredible variety of parrots. They were fascinated by the different colours, sizes, and sounds, and their enquiry skills were on full display as they discussed why parrots might have differently shaped beaks. Their natural curiosity turned this part of the visit into a lively learning experience, full of wonder and discovery.
One of the highlights of the day was watching the penguins being fed. The children observed closely, noticing how the penguins moved through the water and how they interacted with one another. We even had a surprise visit from a wild heron who tried to get some of the fish!
After exploring the aviaries, the children enjoyed some well-earned fun on the Tree Top playground. The huge slides were a particular favourite, and it was wonderful to see the children supporting one another, showing confidence, and sharing joyful moments as they climbed, balanced, and whooshed down the slides together.
Later in the day, we spent time observing flamingos and pelicans, sparking a rich discussion about their similarities and differences. The children compared their appearances and enjoyed being able to see them so closely.
The learning didn’t stop when we returned to school. Inspired by everything they had experienced, the children produced some beautiful creative work. They wrote detailed pieces about their favourite parts of the trip and wrote their own stories about parrots. In Art they made 3D trees decorated with flowers and birds and even collaborated on a large bird sculpture. Their artwork captured the excitement of the day and reflected the knowledge they had gained through careful observation and questioning.
Our visit to Birdworld was a day filled with discovery, creativity, and joy. It was a wonderful experience for everyone involved, and one we will remember for a long time.
Spring Term Two
This term, Ruby Class have been busy exploring the exciting world of measurement in Maths!
We began by investigating length and height using non-standard units. The children used everyday objects such as cubes, paperclips, and even their own hands to measure different items around the classroom. This helped them understand that measurement is about comparing and finding out “how long” or “how tall” something is, even before using rulers. The class enjoyed working together to measure and compare objects, using key vocabulary such as longer, shorter, taller, and smaller.
More recently, we have been learning about mass using balance scales. The children investigated different objects to find out which were heavier or lighter. They made predictions, tested their ideas, and discussed their findings using mathematical language. They particularly enjoyed experimenting with the scales and discovering that some objects were equal in mass.
Throughout all of these activities, the children have been developing their ability to explain their thinking clearly, using key vocabulary to describe and compare. We are very proud of how confidently they are beginning to talk about their learning and justify their ideas.
Well done, Year 1—fantastic work!
Spring Term One
Year 1 thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to attend Forest School on rotation throughout the year. These sessions provide a wonderful chance for the children to explore the natural environment, develop new skills and build their confidence outdoors.
During Forest School, the children learn how to use tools and materials safely and responsibly. They are encouraged to take managed risks, follow safety guidance and show respect for their surroundings. These valuable experiences help to build independence and resilience.
Forest School also promotes the importance of being outdoors in all kinds of weather. Whether it is sunny, windy or drizzling with rain, Year 1 embrace the experience with enthusiasm and positivity, learning that outdoor learning is fun all year round.
The sessions support teamwork and collaboration, as the children work together on activities and through play. They develop their listening and attention skills by following instructions carefully and sharing ideas with their peers.
We are incredibly proud of the way Year 1 approach Forest School with curiosity, excitement and a willingness to try new things.
Autumn Term Two
Our Year 1 children proudly showcased their artwork in a vibrant art exhibition celebrating colour, creativity, and experimentation. Throughout the project, the children learnt about primary and secondary colours, exploring how colours can be mixed to create a wide variety of exciting effects.
They took inspiration from artists such as Wassily Kandinsky and Jasper Johns, focusing on bold colour choices and thoughtful colour mixing as they developed their own ideas. Using a range of mixed media, the children created striking paintings of crocodiles, carefully blending colours and experimenting with different materials to add texture and interest to their work.
The children also explored pattern, using repeated shapes and colour combinations to design and create eye-catching windsocks. These pieces demonstrated their growing confidence in using colour and pattern to express their ideas.
During the exhibition, families were invited to join in the creativity. Children worked alongside their families to design and decorate Christmas ornaments using paint pens, making the event a truly collaborative and festive celebration of art.
The exhibition was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the children’s creativity, learning, and enthusiasm for art, and it was lovely to see families sharing in the experience.
Autumn Term One
This term, Year 1 have been exploring the topic of Stable Structures in Design and Technology. The children learnt what makes a structure strong and steady, experimenting with different shapes and materials to discover how to build for stability.
They applied their new knowledge when constructing and drawing famous London landmarks, carefully considering how the real buildings stand tall and secure. The class also enjoyed making mini basketball hoops, testing how to balance and add weights to keep their structures upright during play.
The children used all these skills to design and create their own stable pencil pots. They planned their ideas, chose suitable materials, and built with care to ensure their finished products were both sturdy and functional. It was wonderful to see their creativity, problem-solving, and engineering skills in action!
