At Forest Prep, Year 2 is an exciting and important stage in a child’s journey. It is the year where pupils consolidate their early learning while beginning to develop the independence, curiosity and academic confidence that will prepare them for Upper School.
Our Year 2 classroom has a calm, purposeful atmosphere where children are encouraged to think deeply, ask questions and take pride in their work. Pupils are seated in mixed-gender, mixed-ability pairs in traditional desks facing the board, creating a focused setting where learning is the priority.
With the guidance of an experienced class teacher, the support of a full-time Teaching Assistant and specialist teaching in Music, Art, PE and French, pupils benefit from a rich and carefully designed learning experience that extends well beyond the expectations of the national curriculum.
Preparing for the 11+
Although the 11+ may seem some years away, the foundations for success begin early. In Year 2, pupils complete weekly age appropriate activities in Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) lessons. Using a range of carefully selected resources, including Bond materials, children develop problemsolving, pattern recognition and logical thinking skills.
Maths and English Update
In English lessons, pupils are currently developing their sentence construction, learning how to write effectively for different purposes and audiences, while expanding their vocabulary. Reading remains at the heart of our English curriculum and children are rapidly increasing their comprehension skills.
In Maths, we are strengthening our mental recall of times tables, with children working to increase both speed and accuracy. Pupils are learning to use the inverse operation to check their answers, helping them become more confident and accurate mathematicians.
Practical and Hands On Learning
Learning in Year 2 extends far beyond the classroom. We believe that meaningful experiences help children remember and understand new ideas.
This year pupils take part in a variety of enriching visits and activities, including:
- A visit to Staircase House
- A safety workshop at Safety Central at Lymm Fire and Rescue
- The exciting Burwardsley residential
- A visit from the Teddy Bear Hospital, helping children learn about health and wellbeing
In addition, pupils enjoy STEM sessions with our specialist Science teacher, where they explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics through practical investigations and creative problem solving.
1:12 Teacher to Child Ratio
The presence of a full-time Teaching Assistant allows for focused intervention and tailored support for those children who need that little bit more of extra help to secure their learning.
In contrast, High-Ability Pupils are Stretched and Challenged through Independent research tasks, Complex mathematical puzzles and Work completed at greater depth within the lesson context.
Preparing for Upper School
As pupils approach the end of Year 2, we ensure a smooth and supportive transition into Upper School. During the summer term, teaching styles gradually evolve to reflect the expectations of Year 3.
The Year 3 teacher spends time in the Year 2 classroom so that pupils become familiar with them and feel confident about the move. By the end of the year, children are confidently writing their homework in their diaries and packing their own bags, important steps in developing the independence required in Year 3.
