Year 2

Welcome to Year 2

Year 2 is an exciting and rewarding year that builds upon the skills developed in Key Stage 1 whilst encouraging greater independence, confidence and responsibility. At APS, we believe learning should be inspiring, memorable and enjoyable, and Year 2 is packed with enriching experiences that bring learning to life both inside and outside the classroom.

Throughout the year, children are given opportunities to take on new responsibilities and develop leadership skills, fostering a strong sense of belonging within our school community. Alongside this, they enjoy a wide range of enriching activities, educational visits and hands-on learning experiences that make Year 2 a truly special year.

Our curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and encourage children to become enthusiastic learners. As historians, pupils learn about both historical and modern-day explorers, discovering the remarkable individuals who have ventured into the unknown and shaped our understanding of the world. As geographers and scientists, children investigate habitats and learn how animals and plants adapt to their environments. They explore the fascinating world of plants through practical investigations and enjoy a visit to a local farm, where they learn about animals and their young firsthand.

One of the highlights of the year is our visit to Dunham Massey, where children explore a magnificent stately home and grounds, deepening their understanding of local history and heritage. These real-life experiences help bring classroom learning to life and create lasting memories.

Science is a particular strength of Year 2, with children taking part in a wide range of exciting experiments and investigations. Through practical learning, they develop their observation, prediction and reasoning skills whilst nurturing a lifelong love of discovery.

Reading remains at the heart of everything we do. Children continue to strengthen their phonics knowledge and spelling patterns, becoming increasingly fluent and confident readers. We foster a genuine love of books through engaging texts and carefully planned reading opportunities, ensuring every child develops the skills and enthusiasm needed to become a fabulous reader.

In English, children explore a variety of genres and text types, including stories, diary entries, letters, reports and poetry. They develop their understanding of grammar, punctuation and vocabulary whilst building confidence in their writing. Storytelling is a key feature of Year 2, allowing children to develop creativity, imagination and strong communication skills as they bring characters, settings and adventures to life.

As mathematicians, children build on their number knowledge and develop confidence with the four operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Problem-solving and reasoning are embedded throughout the curriculum, helping children become resilient thinkers who can apply their mathematical understanding in a range of contexts. Regular times table practice ensures children leave Year 2 with a strong foundation for future learning.

Personal development is woven throughout every aspect of school life. Through PSHE, assemblies, class discussions and daily interactions, children develop resilience, empathy, respect and self-confidence. We encourage every child to become a kind, responsible and reflective member of our school community.

Above all, Year 2 at APS is a year of exploration, achievement and growth. It is a year filled with exciting discoveries, memorable trips, wonderful books, scientific investigations, creative storytelling and opportunities to shine. We are proud to provide a nurturing environment where every child feels valued, challenged and inspired to achieve their very best.

We look forward to welcoming your child to a fantastic Year 2 journey at APS.

Mrs Neild and Miss Whitehurst

 

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