A more formal approach to lessons begins in Key Stage 1, although a lot of the learning is still taught through play, especially in Year 1. Building on the child-centred foundations set in the Pre-Prep years, the journey through Key Stage 1 at Durham is a time of nurturing individuality, of opening young minds to endless possibilities, and of encouraging pupils to think creatively and form their own ideas – all while having fun.
Students in Year 1 and 2 gain skills to write in a variety of different genres such as story writing, poetry, letters, information texts and diary extracts; and spelling, punctuation and grammar are consolidated across all areas of work.
English is a central feature of everyday lessons and involves building on phonics and reading skills as well as developing comprehension and understanding of texts to support all areas of the curriculum. Students in Year 1 and 2 gain skills to write in a variety of different genres such as story writing, poetry, letters, information texts and diary extracts; and spelling, punctuation and grammar are consolidated across all areas of work.
Mathematics is a key feature across the curriculum at Durham. Pupils work with manipulatives and real life situations to develop mathematical reasoning, conceptual understanding and fluency in counting, number, place value and operations. Students begin to apply mathematical reasoning to solve problems and make estimates, and they develop their understanding of shape, space and measure.
Science in Key Stage 1 involves developing scientific knowledge and scientific thinking by providing opportunities for pupils to explore and investigate the world around them through observation, data collection, analysis, questioning, interpreting evidence, classification and developing vocabulary to explain and give reasons for their findings.
Science topics in Years 1 and 2 include: Materials, Animals, The Human Body, Habitats, Electricity, Changing State and Plants.
Geography involves developing locational knowledge, place knowledge, human and physical geography and beginning to use geography skills like mapping. The school is located next to Karura Forest which provides a natural treasure trove of places and features to explore.
History involves researching different time periods and ways of living. Students explore both their local environment and the wider world around them. Topics draw upon different cultures, allowing pupils to understand that people have different beliefs, customs and traditions, encouraging understanding and tolerance of other people and their environments.
Our core values of moral integrity, ambition, respect and kindness, together with a strong sense of community, is at the heart of a Durham education, ensuring continuity and consistency across all areas of learning and development.
