We are thrilled to begin an exciting new school year with your child! Our Year 1/2 team is ready to dive into a rich and inspiring curriculum designed to spark curiosity and build confidence.
Teaching in Year 1 is Mrs Barr and Mrs Beecher (Thursday and Friday).
Our teaching assistant is Mrs Reed (Mornings).
We are here to support your child every step of the way.
WHAT WE ARE LEARNING
Explore our Long-Term Matrix to see the exciting topics and themes we will be covering this year. It is going to be a fantastic journey of discovery!
SCHOOL DAY
- Start Time: Doors open at 8:45am and close promptly at 8:50am. The class teacher will be classroom door each morning.
- End Time: 3:15pm
READING
Reading is a cornerstone to KS1 learning. Here is how you can support:
- Daily Reading at Home: Please log your child’s reading on Seesaw with a photo or short comment.
- In School: Children will enjoy daily Guided Reading sessions using a variety of books and flashcard games.
- Book Swap Box: Children can choose a book to take home and share with you—encouraging a love of reading!
Reading books will be changed every Monday. Please ensure your child brings their reading book to school every day.
SPELLINGS
- Spellings are set every Monday via Spelling Shed.
- Spelling rules and patterns are taught throughout the week.
- Children will be tested the following Monday—please help them practise at home.
PHONICS SCREENING (YEAR 1)
In June 2026, children will take the national Phonics Screening Check:
- Children are required to read 40 words: 20 real and 20 pseudo (nonsense) words
- Daily phonics sessions will prepare them, and Spring Term booster classes will be available.
PE
PE is Tuesday and Friday afternoons. We will continue to come into school in sports clothes on PE days. We provide a school PE kit through Motif8 which consists of PE
hoodies, skorts, shorts and jogging bottoms. Alternatively, your child should wear a
navy sweatshirt or hoodie, plain white t-shirt, navy blue shorts and navy-blue tracksuit bottoms or joggers. The wearing of football kits and brightly coloured PE kits are NOT permitted in school. We also recommend your child has a water bottle in school to keep them hydrated throughout the day.
PE will take place outdoors, weather permitting. Please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for active fun!
LUNCH & PLAYTIME
- Children receive a free healthy snack daily
- You may also send a fruit-only snack from home
- Please provide a water bottle (water only—no juice)
- Nut-Free Reminder: No nuts or nut-containing products in packed lunches
HOMEWORK
- Daily Reading
- Weekly Spellings
These small daily habits make a big impact!
KEY DATES
All important dates are listed on our school website and updated via Arbor. Keep an eye out for any changes or additions.
STAY IN TOUCH
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to speak to us or email: admin@thelinksprimary.org.uk
Thank you for your continued support—we are excited to get to know you and your wonderful children!
