Key Stage 1

At Barnes Primary School, Key Stage 1 is a vibrant and important stage in every child’s journey. Building on the strong foundations laid in the Early Years Foundation Stage, we nurture each child’s academic development alongside their growing confidence, independence and emotional understanding. Our aim is to ensure that every child feels secure, valued and ready to thrive as they move into the next stage of their education. 

Our welcoming and nurturing team creates a positive environment where every child is known and supported. Guided by our core values of Learning, Love and Laughter, we foster a culture where children feel happy, safe and motivated to do their very best. We place great importance on personal development alongside academic success and support children to develop resilience, empathy and self-belief as part of everyday school life. We also actively support children in building positive relationships and understanding how to interact respectfully with others. These values are embedded throughout the curriculum and reflect our commitment to developing the whole child. 

In Key Stage 1, our curriculum is carefully planned to be broad, balanced and engaging. We prioritise the secure development of reading, writing and mathematics while also providing rich opportunities across the wider curriculum. Learning is designed to be meaningful and connected, giving children time to explore ideas in depth and develop secure understanding. 

We build on the curiosity and creativity developed in the Early Years Foundation Stage while ensuring continuity in both learning approaches and expectations. Through carefully sequenced learning, children develop key knowledge and skills that prepare them for Key Stage 2 and for lifelong learning. Our approach reflects a clear understanding of how children learn over time, including the importance of revisiting key ideas and developing a rich vocabulary. 

By the end of Key Stage 1, our children are confident, articulate and enthusiastic learners, equipped with strong foundations, positive learning behaviours and the independence needed to move successfully into Key Stage 2.