FS1 Notices

Phonics
In Phonics this week, the children have been having fun exploring the world of instrumental sounds. They have been introduced to a variety of instruments, learning their names and exploring the different sounds they make. We experimented with playing them both quietly and loudly, and then compared this with how we can use our own voices to make sounds that are soft or strong. This playful exploration is helping the children tune into the concept of sound variation and supports their ability to listen carefully and respond to what they hear.

Mathematics
In Maths, our focus has been on sequencing and using the special words First, Next, and Last. We used our story of the week, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, to help us practise these words. The children enjoyed using a story map to retell the events in the correct order, which also supported their memory and storytelling skills. Alongside sequencing, we have been practising counting skills using real objects, which makes the learning practical and meaningful. We also had great fun joining in with number rhymes such as Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed. These activities are helping the children not only develop their mathematical understanding but also grow in confidence when using mathematical language in everyday contexts.

Cooking
This week we enjoyed cooking porridge together. The children practised important skills such as cutting ingredients and stirring the mixture. We also had rich discussions about healthy food choices and thought carefully about which toppings we would like to add to our porridge. The activity was not only lots of fun but also a valuable way to build independence, develop fine motor skills, and learn more about making healthy choices.

Play and Exploration
Our playtimes have been filled with meaningful experiences too. The children continue to love spending time in the garden, where they feed and care for our tortoise, and they also help to look after Snowy, our school rabbit. These daily routines are wonderful opportunities for children to learn about responsibility, empathy, and how to care for living things. They take great pride in these tasks and love sharing what they have learned with one another.

Arabic
In Arabic lessons, we have been working carefully through our workbooks, which the children will soon bring home for you to see. These show some of the progress they are making and give you a glimpse of their learning. This week we have been practising greetings, learning the names of animals, and talking about the names of some family members. The children have really enjoyed these sessions, which have been interactive, engaging, and lots of fun!

Music
In Music, we have been developing rhythm and listening skills. The children used a drum to tap out the syllables in their names, which is a brilliant way to combine musical learning with phonics skills. We also sang our Welcome to Music song, listening carefully to Mrs O’Brien’s singing and repeating it back. The children loved singing the Walking Song again, which involved following instructions and performing actions at the right time – this required careful listening, concentration, and lots of energy!

Gate opening times

Please note that the Blue EYFS Gate opens at 7:10 am and closes promptly at 7:30 am. Punctuality is very important, as FS2 children begin structured phonics and maths sessions during this time.

We are always available at the gate for quick questions or to hear any information you would like to share about your child. Please speak to us if you have anything important to let us know.

Focus Parent Meetings

Please remember to complete the questionnaire form and return it to your class teacher. These meetings give us a valuable opportunity to speak with you in more detail about your child’s progress, well-being, and learning journey. You will also receive an email from the Primary Office with the date and time of your meeting, which will take place on Sundays after school. Your child will also bring home a sheet to complete with you before the meeting to help guide our discussion.

• Library: Our library sessions will take place on Tuesdays. Please ensure that books are returned on Tuesday mornings so your child can borrow a new one. 

• Please note that we promote healthy eating, it is important that snack boxes contain healthy food and perhaps a small ‘treat.’ 

• Correct uniform is to be worn by the children, please check the school website if you are unsure. FS1 children do not need a PE uniform. 

• We do require a change of clothes in a labeled bag in case of any accidents. This will remain in school instead of being sent home each day.

• Please do not hesitate to contact the Primary Office if you have any questions or queries. 

Oracy & English Parental Engagement Workshop

Thank you to all of you that attended our Parental Engagement Workshop this week! We truly appreciate your time and involvement in supporting your child’s learning. 

Please click here for the slides from the presentation. 

Your feedback is invaluable in helping us understand what worked well and how we can improve future workshops to better support you. Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey, your insights will help us continue to grow and enhance our parent-school partnership. 

Learning Ladders at Home Presentation

Please click here for the Learning Ladders presentation

Meet and Greet Presentations

• Miss Dellman's presentation

• FS1 Classroom presentation

• Specialists presentation

Term 1 Curriculum Newsletter

Please click here for the FS1 Curriculum Newsletter for Term 1

Absences

If your child is unwell, leaving early or coming in late please complete the Absence Form and the class teacher will be informed.