Key Stage 1 Curriculum
Key Stage 1 at St Lawrence College marks the exciting next step in your child’s learning journey. Spanning Years 1 and 2, these formative years build on the firm foundations of the Early Years, encouraging a love of learning through rich experiences, personalised teaching, and growing independence.
Our small class sizes and dedicated team ensure that every child is known and understood. With tailored learning, supportive routines, and warm encouragement, each pupil is empowered to flourish — academically, socially, and emotionally.
Year 1
Year 1 provides a carefully supported transition from the play-based EYFS curriculum to a more structured, yet still creative and exploratory approach to learning.
Children are introduced to core schemes in Literacy, Phonics and Numeracy, while still benefiting from a topic-led approach that encourages discovery and joy in learning. Daily phonics and guided reading sessions strengthen early literacy, while practical activities support growing numeracy. Children begin to explore History, Geography, Science, and Art through cross-curricular themes, supported by specialist teaching in PE, Music and French.
With daily access to outdoor learning, including Forest School, and growing involvement in the life of the school — from assemblies to clubs and House points — children in Year 1 build confidence, develop routines, and take their first steps as independent learners.
Year 2
In Year 2, children build on their growing skills and independence, developing the confidence to take on greater responsibility and embrace new challenges.
Pupils follow a progression model in English and Maths, with writing becoming more expressive and structured. Children are supported and stretched through targeted teaching groups and are encouraged to reflect on their learning, set personal goals, and persevere with challenges.
The curriculum remains broad and dynamic, with specialist teachers leading inspiring lessons in Music, French, and PE. Pupils also take part in Games lessons alongside older children, helping them develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical literacy.
The nurturing environment in Year 2 ensures that pupils are well-prepared — both academically and emotionally — for a confident move into Key Stage 2.
Personalised Support & Assessment
We meet every child where they are, using continuous assessment to monitor progress and tailor support. Parents are kept closely informed through consultations, reports, and regular communication.
Additional needs are met with care and expertise, with our SENDCo working in partnership with teachers and, where appropriate, specialist external support.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Children in Key Stage 1 benefit from a vibrant enrichment programme that nurtures creativity, confidence and curiosity. Experiences include:
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Weekly Forest School sessions
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Themed curriculum days and dress-up events
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Local trips and on-site workshops
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A varied range of after-school clubs such as art, nature, construction, and music
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Eco and Citizenship activities linked to our House system and pupil voice
A Strong Start for a Bright Future
By the end of Key Stage 1, pupils leave Year 2 as confident, curious and capable learners. They carry with them:
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Strong foundations in literacy and numeracy
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A developing sense of independence and self-belief
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A natural curiosity about the world
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The resilience to try, reflect, and try again
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A strong sense of community and belonging
At St Lawrence College, we don’t just prepare children for the next year — we prepare them for life.
