Key Stage One
Key Stage 1 consists of two year groups: Year 1 (ages 5/6) and Year 2 (ages 6/7). The underlying aim is to provide a safe, secure and stimulating learning environment that encourages children to become confident in their own abilities.
The principal focus of the British taught curriculum is to develop Literacy and Numeracy skills. A majority of teaching time is spent with the class teacher and other curriculum areas covered in class are Science, History, Geography, Art, DT and PSHE. The children are also in the fortunate position to be taught by specialist teachers in the areas of: of ICT, Music, PE, Swimming, MFL and Thai Studies.
The remainder of the curriculum is punctuated with a variety of educational excursions to enhance and ‘bring alive’ the topics covered in Year 1 and Year 2. Year 1 take a trip to the local post office; the Ancient City and a puppet theatre. In Year 2 the children visit the Bangkok Children’s Discovery Museum; Ayutthaya and Bangsaen.
The differing natures in pupils’ personalities and academic abilities are recognised and catered for by varying teaching and learning strategies according to the needs of the class, group and individuals. Young children are active learners so ample opportunity is provided for first hand experiences of the curriculum to build a sound basis for future learning. In addition to this, a variety of quality resources are used to complement the teaching of the curriculum.
Each Key Stage 1 class has its own full time teaching assistant to provide additional support for activities within the classroom.
Throughout the year all children in Key Stage 1 take part in two class assemblies. These give the children the opportunity to showcase work they have been covering in class and to perform in front of an audience. All parents are invited to come and watch their child’s class assembly along with the rest of the Key Stage 1 children. Ample notice of the date of the class assembly is given so, if need be, rearrangements of schedules can be made in order to attend.
During Harrow Expedition Week, the children are encouraged to participate in the Key Stage 1 Sleepover. The Year 1 & 2 children spend one night sleeping in their classroom at school: they bring their own sleeping kit and a favourite teddy to keep them company! A variety of fun games are arranged for after school, including a free swim. The children have an evening meal in the dining hall and then embark on a torch walk around the campus. The night finishes with a feature film including the obligatory popcorn!
All Key Stage 1 children participate in at least one after school activity each week. The activity programme varies each term; activities are lead by Harrow teachers and outside instructors. Some of the previous Key Stage 1 activities have been: basketball, tennis, swimming, construction, spelling games and horse riding to name but a selection.
The ultimate focus in Key Stage 1 is on making the curriculum relevant, interesting and fun. Teaching and support staff aim to guide, encourage and challenge the children; all within a caring and supportive environment that promotes independent lifelong learning.
