The Junior Department – Year 1/2
Year 1 (J2)
Welcome to J2 – the beginning of Key Stage 1 at Merton Court. Year 1 is a time of exciting growth as children transition from the Early Years Foundation Stage into a more structured, yet still nurturing, learning environment.
Transition from Reception (J1) to Year 1(J2)
The transition into J2 begins in the Summer term of Reception (J1). Children begin moving away from a play-based learning environment and start engaging in more formal, table-based activities. They are introduced to writing the full date at the top of their literacy tasks, in preparation for writing both a date and title in J2.
Children attend a Moving Up Day in July, spending time in their new classroom with their future teacher. Once in J2, a short transition period includes more practical or play-based tasks and by the end of the first few weeks in J2, children are confidently navigating a more formal, fast-paced routine.
Classroom Environment and Timetable
In J2, children move from the shared, open-plan Reception space into two distinct classroom environments. Each child has their own desk and tray and is expected to take care of their personal belongings. J2 children follow a more structured and fast-paced timetable with a combination of class teacher-led and specialist lessons.
Subjects Overview
Children begin more formal learning in J2 across a wider range of subjects. Literacy and Numeracy become English and Maths, and English is divided into phonics, spelling, grammar, comprehension, and creative writing lessons. Children are introduced to subjects such as Geography, History, RE, Science, and PSE/RHE.
Specialist subjects include PE, Games, Swimming, Music, Dance, Computing, Spanish, and Forest School.
Homework and Assessment
In J2, children begin to take home regular homework as part of their developing independence and responsibility as well as being introduced to formal assessments. Homework tasks are set daily and are expected to be completed on the same day, to be returned the following morning, with the exception of spelling practice.
Details of homework routines — including which subjects are set on which days — can be found in the homework section of the half-termly J2 newsletter.
Wider Life of the School
Life in J2 is full of exciting opportunities beyond the classroom. Each term, the year group presents an assembly based on a core subject — English, Maths, or Science — allowing children to build confidence in performing and sharing their learning with others.
Children also take part in House events each term, linked to these core subjects, as well as school-wide celebrations such as the Festivals of Speech and Drama, Music, and Dance. These events encourage creativity, collaboration and a sense of community across the school.
J2 pupils are involved in the Junior Christmas Production, and they enjoy a variety of trips and in-school events throughout the year. Keep an eye on the J2 newsletters and ParentMail for updates on upcoming dates and details.