Years 1 & 2 (E and C)

Year 1&2 Curriculum plan 2024 - 2025

Please note, that we currently have a Year 1 class and a Year 2 class.

Our rational for grouping children is that they will be placed with the teacher who will be teaching their next steps, at a pace and in a manner that is appropriate to them.  A solid grasp  of the Reception level knowledge in phonics and numbers is essential in order to be able to access the Y1  curriculum. Likewise, the Y1 curriculum needs to be well embedded in order to fully access the Y2 curriculum.

Organising the classes in this way will enable the teachers to really focus their input and will be a more efficient and effective provision for children at all levels. If a child’s needs change over time we would always consider a move to a different group as appropriate.

Mixed Year groups at St Boniface:

At St Boniface, we operate in mixed-age classrooms and believe there are many benefits to this learning environment. Children are able to stay with the same teacher for two years, which enables the teacher to develop a deep understanding of their class. Additionally, the teaching is tailored towards pupils’ individual needs, as well as their own strengths. From a social and emotional perspective, pupils have the opportunity to befriend children from different age groups to their own. Consequently, these children are encouraged to take on the role of mentors to support their younger classmates while developing their own social competencies. We strongly believe that mixed-age classrooms encourages children to discover their untapped potential spiritually; academically, socially and emotionally.

Nurturing aspect.  Our teachers have their class of children for two years in a row and this enables them to get to know the children really well – this leads to planning for exactly what that child needs. 
Our St Boniface family.  Making friends in year above and below helps the community feel of school and children more comfortable interacting with older children. 
Cooperation.  Opportunities for younger children to be buddied up with a confident older child in their class. Mentoring skills for older children, peer support for younger children. 
Raising attainment and self esteem for summer born.  Summer born children are not youngest in class consistently – they get to be the more experienced older child every other year.  
Targeted support.  Younger children are stretched by being exposed to curriculum content for older students. Students who found topics/concepts challenging can be supported when revisiting them the following year, with a teacher who knows their gaps. 
Setting a good example.  Older children know routines and expectations and model these for younger. 
Friendship opportunities.  Children mixing with more children means they are more sociable.

All children at St Boniface are taught by outstanding teachers who teach what each child needs to learn at that time, supporting children when they need extra help and challenging those who are already confident to take their knowledge and understanding to a greater depth.