Year 1 update
This page is updated every two weeks - W/C 7/9/26
Welcome
Welcome to Year 1! We have had a great start to the year. The first few days and weeks can be tricky as children learn to adjust to a new teacher, classroom and structure. The transition to year 1 is possibly the biggest change as they move into a more formal setting for learning, play in the big play area and have other year groups to contend with. If your child is dysregulated or struggles to come into class, we anticipate this behaviour and we will do all we can to help them settle.
If you missed the Welcome to Year 1 meeting the slides will be made available on the school website shortly.
Please remember to send in named jumpers and raincoats. The children will go outside unless it is pouring!
Your child is allowed to have a healthy fruit snack after morning play. We do provide fruit on a daily basis but if you would prefer to send in their own snack, please do.
Reading Volunteers Wanted
With the 2026/2027 academic year in full swing, we are happy to once again ask for Reading Volunteers. Previously, we have had parents/carers come into the school and read with children who need extra support in their fluency practise. Your responsibilities would include: reading with/to a child (depending on their age), asking them some follow-up comprehension questions and helping them foster a love of reading through practise.
If you are interested, please email me heathersmyllie@hollymount.merton.sch.uk with:
- your name
- the name and year group of your student
- your availability
Educational Wellbeing Service (EWS)
The SWLSTG Educational Wellbeing Service (EWS) has launched a new programme of online parent groups, which will be offered throughout the year on a rolling basis. Feedback from previous groups has highlighted that parents find not only the psychoeducation and practical strategies they learn in the group helpful, but also the opportunity to connect with other parents whose children may be experiencing similar difficulties.
This year, we will be offering two online group programmes for the schools we support:
- Supporting Children with Sleep
- Goodbyes and Goodnights (for parents of children who may find it difficult to settle at night or attend school in the morning due to worries or anxiety)
Parents can sign up directly using the link or QR code included on the flyer below.
goodbyes and goodnights online parent carer group oct 26.pdf
First few days of Year 1!
An update from the classroom and the teaching and learning taking place
We have spent the first few days learning classroom and school routines, including our school values. We have introduced our expectations and learning to work together at a desk. They have done so well and we are so proud of them.
Reading
Reading will commence next week. Children have initially been placed into reading groups based on their reading levels at the end of Reception. These groups are not fixed and will be reviewed and adjusted throughout the year to reflect each child’s progress and achievement.
History & PSHE
Please send in two sets of the same 4 photos of your child (from birth to the present) by latest Monday the 21st of September. One copy will be used to create a personal timeline as part of their learning in History, the other will be used to cover their books for PSHE. Please ensure the photos are no larger than 4"x6", as they will be pasted into their books.
Coming up over the next few weeks…
Literacy – Text: Sidney, Stella and the Moon
Maths – Place value within 10
Phonics – Revision of Phase 4
Science – Plants
RE – Caring for others
PSHE – My healthy self
History – How am I making history?
Art – Drawing - Exploring line and shape
Music – Keeping the pulse
Standing information
Hollymount Entitlement (dates tbc)
Trip – Walk around Holland Gardens
Curriculum Day – Space dome
PE Days (wear PE kit to school) – Wednesday and Friday
Website information
Remember to check out our website page for more information https://www.hollymount.org/Year-1/
Our website also includes all curriculum information so you can find out what your child is learning https://www.hollymount.org/Our-Curriculum/ and has advice for support positive mental health https://www.hollymount.org/Mental-Health-and-Wellbeing/
