Class 2 - Year 1/2

Welcome to Class 2

Welcome to Class 2 with Mrs. Gough and Mrs. Hagan! On this page, you’ll find essential information about our class, timetable, and expectations for the year ahead. We are dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for your child and look forward to supporting them throughout their learning journey.

Reading

In Class 2, reading is a key priority, and we expect children to read for at least 15 minutes every day. The benefits of reading aloud with your child are enormous, as it helps develop fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

Your child will choose a reading book from our library after completing their STAR test, which assesses their reading skills and provides them with an appropriate reading level. I will monitor their progress closely and support them in selecting books that challenge them without being overwhelming. Once they have finished a book, they will take a quiz, and their results will guide them in choosing their next book.

Spelling

In Class 2, we follow a spelling scheme called Ed Shed. The children will be assigned spellings on Ed Shed each week, where they can engage in interactive games and activities to help them practise and reinforce their spelling skills. This approach makes learning fun and helps children retain spelling rules and patterns in an enjoyable way.

Spelling tests will take place every Thursday. Regular practice at home will support their progress and help improve their writing.

Times Tables

In Class 2, children are expected to regularly practise their 2, 5, 10, and 3 times tables. To support this, we use a fun and engaging platform called Times Table Rockstars, where children can practise their times tables through interactive games and challenges. This helps them build speed and accuracy, which are essential for completing a wide range of mathematical calculations.

In addition to practising at home, children will also take part in MAC competitions throughout the year, competing with other schools to showcase their times table knowledge and improve their skills.

Classroom Environment & Curriculum

In Class 2, we foster a creative and engaging learning environment where every child feels valued. Our curriculum is designed to develop key skills in English, Maths, Science, and a wide range of foundation subjects such as History, Geography, Art, and PE. We tailor our lessons to meet the needs of all learners, ensuring children are both supported and challenged in their learning.

We place a strong emphasis on phonics and early reading to ensure that every child becomes a confident and independent reader. For maths, our focus is on developing fluency with numbers, particularly through times tables practice.

We also incorporate outdoor learning to encourage curiosity about the natural world, as well as enrichment activities such as school trips and themed weeks, which help bring learning to life.

Class Expectations & General Reminders

• PE: PE lessons are on Monday and Tuesday. Please ensure your child comes to school wearing their named PE kit on these days.

• Outdoor Learning: Outdoor learning takes place on Tuesday. Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather and has any necessary outdoor gear.

• Pencil Cases: Your child does not need to bring a pencil case, as we provide everything they need in class.

• Water Bottles: Please ensure your child brings a named water bottle every day.

• Snacks: We encourage healthy and nutritious snacks in line with our school’s snack guidance. Please check the guidance if you need clarification on what’s allowed.

Behaviour and Attitudes

In our classroom, we promote a positive and respectful atmosphere where every child feels safe to express themselves and take part in learning. We use positive reinforcement and clear expectations to encourage good behaviour. Children are praised for their effort, teamwork, and kindness, creating a culture of mutual respect.

We have simple and effective behaviour management strategies to ensure that learning can take place without disruption. These include clear classroom rules and a reward system to celebrate children's achievements.

Parent Communication & Support

We value open communication with parents and encourage you to get in touch via Seesaw if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s learning. Seesaw is a platform we use to communicate important updates, share class news, and keep you informed of your child's progress.

For any other inquiries or formal communication, please contact the school office at smh-office@smh.magnificat.org.uk.

We look forward to working together with you to make this school year successful and rewarding for your child.