Welcome to Apollo Class! Year 2 is an exciting and important year where children build upon their learning from Year 1 to develop the skills and confidence needed for Key Stage 2. Our focus is on fostering a love of reading, laying strong foundations for writing, and deepening understanding in mathematics. In Year 2, we build our own self confidence and resilience through encouraging independence in our learning.

What We Learn in Apollo Class

During the year, our learning journey takes us through a wide range of engaging topics and skills:

1. Reading
We nurture fluent and expressive reading while building comprehension skills. Children explore a variety of genres, including stories, poetry, and non-fiction texts, helping them expand their vocabulary and understanding of the world. We use VIPERS to help build our reading skills whilst also building a love of reading.

2. Foundations for Writing
Our writing curriculum supports creativity and structure. Children practice spelling, punctuation, and grammar, while exploring fun and meaningful writing opportunities. We cover a range of different pieces of writing, including; narratives, non-chronological reports and instructions.

3. Mathematics
We develop confidence in core arithmetic skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. We introduce formal written methods as well as encouraging children to use mental methods where appropriate. Problem-solving and reasoning are introduced to help children see the real-world applications of maths and prepare them for more advanced concepts in Key Stage 2.

Engaging Topics and Cross-Curricular Learning

Apollo Class enjoys exploring a rich variety of themes that inspire curiosity and critical thinking:

• Local History: Children learn about the fascinating heritage of our local area, connecting them with their community and its past. We particularly focus on the work of Charles Wicksteed and the importance of Wicksteed Park to our town.
• Geography – How does where we live compare with Kampong Ayer, Brueni: Exploring the culture, landscapes, and climate of Kampong Ayer provides an exciting opportunity to learn about a faraway place and its people.
• Science - Animals and Habitats: We investigate the diversity of animal life, their habitats, and how they adapt to their surroundings, fostering a love for the natural world.

Our Learning Journey

Our curriculum is designed to complement the whole-school learning journey, ensuring a cohesive and enriched experience for every child. Throughout the year, we collaborate on projects, celebrate achievements, and encourage children to develop a sense of belonging and pride in themselves and their school.