1 Curriculum Overview Autumn Term and Year Summary 2025/202
Teaching and Curriculum at Hampton Court House
Hampton Court House Prep is about providing an educational experience centred around the child with bespoke approaches for every individual. Whether in classroom settings, extra-curricular activities or charity work, we teach the children to be well-rounded and caring and to contribute to all aspects of school life. Our day-to-day curriculum is one of the foundations of this approach. Lessons are designed to be interesting, engaging, supportive and challenging so that all children feel able to do their best. Teachers will always enable children to contribute fully to lessons, learn and demonstrate new knowledge, skills and ideas, and to shape their voice as part of a dynamic, but homely, community.
Intent
At Hampton Court House, our Years 1 – 6 curriculum is designed with the holistic development of each child in mind. We aim to cultivate a love for learning, curiosity, and confidence in our students. Central to our intent is the bilingual program for Years 1 – 4, where approximately (30%) of the curriculum is delivered in French. This unique approach not only enhances language skills but also broadens cultural understanding and cognitive flexibility. Our goal is to support every child’s intellectual, social, and emotional growth through a rich and balanced curriculum where mistakes are accepted, and questions welcomed.
Implementation
Our curriculum is implemented with a focus on creating an inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environment with a sense of fun. For Years 1 – 4, the bilingual program integrates French into everyday learning, covering subjects such as history, geography, science, and drama. Each student receives support through a variety of tools, such as visual and auditory aids, including pictures, games, gestures, key sentences, and videos, that create a rich French-speaking environment. Students are encouraged to express themselves in the target language using songs, role-playing, and stories, which help boost their confidence and motivation to communicate in French. This immersive setting enables children to progress naturally and quickly, developing both their comprehension and speaking skills. Lessons are structured to build on previous knowledge, ensuring a smooth progression. Within years 5 and 6 more specialist teachers are used to deliver the curriculum which allows for the development of skills necessary to start their secondary education in year 7. We employ a variety of teaching methods, including individual tasks, group work, and hands-on activities, to cater to different learning styles. Continuous assessment practices allow us to monitor each child's progress closely and provide personalised support as needed.
Impact
The impact of our carefully crafted curriculum is seen in the enthusiasm and active participation of our students. They develop strong foundation skills in literacy, numeracy, and science, along with the ability to think critically and solve problems. The bilingual program enhances their language skills and cultural awareness, giving them a broader perspective and improved cognitive abilities. Our students also grow in confidence, independence, and social skills. Regular assessments demonstrate enhanced academic progress and personal development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the next stage of their education with a lifelong love of learning and a unique bilingual advantage.
Key contacts
Susie Byers Head of Prep sby@hchnet.co.uk
Katy Deacon Deputy Academic kde@hchnet.co.uk
Rob Armiger
Assistant Principal | Director of Studies rwa@hchnet.co.uk
Eldon Fayers
Assistant Principal | Teaching & Learning efa@hchnet.co.uk
Year 1 students will be producing an art calendar this term Learning about the background of twelve different artists, pupils will study twelve individual pieces of work and make a creative response, one for each month of the year. This introduces a knowledge of art history to pupils in addition to developing their observation and drawing skills, ideas about colour theory, scissor skills and collage techniques.
Term
Autumn 1
Autumn 2
Spring 1
Spring 2
Summer 1
Summer 2
What are we studying?
Art Calendar: Making art inspired by artists Yayoi Kusama, L S Lowry, Henri Matisse, Barbara Hepworth, Eileen Agar
Art calendar: Making art inspired by artists Mary Fedden, David Hockney, Peter Blake, Howard Hodgkin, Andy Goldsworthy
Solar System: Using a variety of different techniques and materials, pupils will create patterned and textured papers with which to represent the planets on an outer space collage
Clay: Taking inspiration from the work of Clarice Cliff, pupils will learn to master the pinch pot technique to create colourfully decorated pots which will be fired in the kiln
Sewing project: Taking inspiration from textile designer Donna Wilson, pupils will design and stitch a hand puppet This project aims to develop fine motor skills and introduces pupils to the properties of fabric and how to master a basic running stitch
Drawing: Studying the work of children’s book illustrators, pupils will learn about storytelling through art Pupils will revisit the techniques they have learnt to date, to develop and improve drawing skills and make art in response to that of illustrators such as John Burningham, Brian Wildsmith, Satoshi Kitamura and John Klassen
Découverte du Monde (Discovering
the World)
DDM, which stands for “Discover the World,” is a subject that combines History, Geography, and Science into one learning experience. Since we have two hours each week to cover the curriculum, we will alternate the focus between these subjects each term. This way, children get a rich and balanced understanding of how people, places, and the natural world connect and change over time.
In the autumn term, Year 1 pupils will explore key historical and scientific concepts to build their understanding of time, change, and the world around them.
Science
In Science throughout terms 1 and 2, children will study the differences between day and night, explore how daylight varies across the seasons, and identify how seasonal changes affect clothing and weather They will also learn about the human lifecycle, understanding that while people change as they grow older, certain features remain recognisable, helping them grasp how time affects the body and development
History
In History, pupils will learn to place themselves in time using words like "today," "yesterday," and "tomorrow," and identify the date and day They will explore family structures by naming relatives and making simple family trees, building timelines with key family events Year 1 will compare life “then” and “ now, ” learning about important figures like Dr Martin Luther King Jr and Rosa Parks and their impact on society
Découverte du Monde, continued
Term
History and Science:
Autumn 1
Autumn 2
Spring 1
Spring 2
Summer 1
Summer 2
What are we studying?
In Term 1, Year 1 pupils will begin to understand the concept of time by using vocabulary like "aujourd’hui, hier, demain" to identify the date, day, and month. They will explore family structures by naming relatives and creating simple family trees, linking generations and important events such as weddings and births. Through building timelines, children will develop their sense of chronological order and how events connect across time. In Science, they will study the differences between day and night, notice how daylight changes with the seasons, and observe how these seasonal changes affect clothing and weather.
History and Science:
In Term 2, pupils will deepen their understanding of past and present by comparing life “then” and “now,” focusing on changes in daily routines and education. They will learn about significant historical figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks during Black History Month, exploring their roles in driving important social change. In Science, children will continue learning about the human lifecycle, recognizing how people grow and change over time while maintaining familiar features, helping them understand development and the passage of time.
Geography and Science:
In Term 1, Year 1 students will explore geography by learning to identify familiar places using different materials like photos and maps, including a fun geography treasure hunt. They will discover the Earth through globes and maps, name the six continents and five oceans, and understand directions including the four cardinal points and the equator. In science, they will study parts of trees and flowers, learn how to tell a tree’s age, understand what plants need to grow, and take part in growing their own flowers or vegetables.
Geography, History and Science:
In Term 2, students will focus on the countries of the United Kingdom, learning their flags, capitals, symbols, and traditions, with a focus on places like London, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. They will link this to historical events such as the Great Fire of London or Guy Fawkes and cultural celebrations like St George’s, St Patrick’s, and St Andrew’s days. In science, they will explore everyday materials, identify their properties, and learn about recycling and sustainability by sorting waste into different bins.
Geography and Science:
In Term 1, Year 1 pupils will explore geography by locating countries such as France (Paris), Italy (Rome and Venice), Egypt, Australia, and Brazil on a map. They will learn to recognize the flags, capital cities, and important monuments of these countries, as well as discover some of their customs and traditions. In Science, children will investigate the differences between living, dead, and never-living things. They will observe the development of ducklings hatching from eggs and caterpillars undergoing metamorphosis. Pupils will also learn about the basic needs of animals and humans, including water, food, and air, while practicing how to gather and record data from their observations.
Geography and Science:
During Term 2, geography lessons will focus on a contest covering continents, oceans, capitals, countries, and flags to reinforce pupils’ knowledge. They will use simple geographical vocabulary to describe human features like factories, shops, and transport, as well as natural landscapes such as beaches, mountains, forests, and farms. Pupils will also compare urban and rural areas, discussing their advantages and disadvantages. In Science, children will study food chains by learning how animals get their food from plants and other animals, identifying sources of food, and understanding what happens when a link in the food chain disappears. They will also categorize animals into herbivores, omnivores, and carnivores based on their eating habits.
English
In Y1 and 2 we use the ‘Read Write Inc.’ phonics program. It is a DfE-validated systematic synthetic phonics programme for teaching early reading and writing, designed to ensure progress for every child. Children move through the course according to their own individual progress. Most children will have completed the course half-way through Y2. Those pupils will then explore other aspects of reading and writing to consolidate their skills. Those pupils who need a little more time will continue on the programme to ensure they make the desired progress to ensure all pupils are ready for Y3.
We make sure that Read Write Inc. teachers inject their lessons with energy and enjoyment, from teaching the first sounds to developing fluency and comprehension and engaging children in the best stories that reflect all children’s lives. Children learn to read sounds and blend them into words. They apply this phonic knowledge to read and comprehend Storybooks that are carefully matched to the sounds they know. Children learn to read these books with a storyteller’s voice supporting development of prosody (stress and intonation) and expressive communication skills. The aim of Read Write Inc. Phonics is for children to learn to read early. By the end of term 2 in Year 2 children should be able to read stories at over 70 words per minute.
They also learn how to form letters using mnemonics to help them. They learn to spell correctly using their Fred fingers. And they learn to compose their own writing - drawing upon ideas from the story they’ve just read.
Everything knits together: The phonics supports the reading and writing; The reading supports the writing, the writing supports the reading. While your children are learning to read, they work in progress groups to master each level of phonics and reading. The reading leader assesses and re-groups children every half-term. This allows you to whisk children through the phonic stages as quickly as possible. Children work in these progress group for one hour each day. This means they are learning at their ‘challenge’ level for five hours a week.
The children progress through colours which identify a different level of phonics knowledge and reading stage. Children who have started the curriculum in September in Reception should have completed all levels by the time they finish year 2.
Extra - support
One-to-one tutoring:
Even with the best teaching and the best programme, there are some children who need extra practice to keep up. We accelerate the progress of these children with 10 minutes one-to-one tutoring every day. However long it takes, we don't give up!
Home support
Read Write Inc. provides everything parents need to help their children practise reading at home. Each week, children take home their Read Write Inc. Storybook and corresponding Book Bag Book. Virtual Classroom videos are sometimes sent home during holidays to help with motivation and to continue the momentum build up.
Forest School
Forest school is the part of our prep curriculum built entirely around outdoor learning. At HCH we have the advantage of excellent grounds that we take full advantage of Throughout Year 1 and Year 2 children develop their confidence, self-esteem and risk-taking skills further through a variety of purposeful and adult led activities. Children will develop a wide range of skills that are cultivated in an outdoor environment, such as bush craft skills, curiosity and care of the natural environment. Throughout the year there are curriculum links to a range of other discrete subjects where it will enhance the learning science, humanities and creative subjects Having a considerate and safe relationship with the outdoors is really important. As such, we will start the year covering being safe around a fire. We will then lead to exploring the natural environment focusing on the changes that they see during seasons.
Forest School,
Term
Autumn 1
Autumn 2
Spring 1
Spring 2
Summer 1
Summer 2
What are we studying?
Safety in the natural environment and taking safe and supervised risks
Observing the changes in weather and in the natural environment for Autumn and Winter
Celebrate Autumn Harvest and Christmas
Building dens and using tools safely
Celebrate Chinese New Year and harvest from community garden to cook a Chinese meal on the open fire
Celebrate National Birdwatching and make bird feeders for winter birds
Fairytales and stories that link to play in the natural environment
Celebrate National Wildlife Day
Observing new changes in the natural environment coming into Spring and planting
Celebrate World Bee Day
Minibeasts, map making and treasure seeking
Year 1 Curriculum Overview
In the Autumn term, Year 1 will begin their French learning journey by exploring the French phonics and some simple sounds as well as useful vocabulary They will also be introduced to the French alphabet, enabling them to start spelling simple words. In Term 1, they will discover the sounds [a], [e], and [i], and learn words related to themselves, politeness, classroom instructions, and stationery. In Term 2, the focus will shift to the sounds [o], [u], and [ê], alongside vocabulary covering numbers from 1 to 20, colours, weather, and elements of the daily routine. This foundational learning will help build their confidence and enjoyment in using French.
Term
Autumn 1
Autumn 2
Spring 1
Spring 2
Summer 1
Summer 2
What are we studying?
We will discover the following new sounds [a], [e], [i]. We will learn vocabulary about themselves, politeness, instructions, stationery. To learn the French alphabet in order to spell simple words.
We will discover the following new sounds [o], [u], [ê]. We will learn vocabulary about numbers from 1 to 20, colours, weather, daily routine.
We will discover the following new sounds [s], [l], [p]. We will learn vocabulary about family, pets/animals, house. They will also discover feminine and masculine nouns.
We will discover the following new sounds [m], [n], [f]. We will learn vocabulary about the body parts, clothes.
We will discover the following new sounds [ch], [v], [r]. We will learn vocabulary about emotions, feelings, sickness. They will discover the singular and plural. To discover how to use a bilingual dictionary to translate and understand simple words.
We will discover the following new sounds [b], [t], [j]. We will learn vocabulary about food, drinks, order in a restaurant and breakfast. To discover how to use a bilingual dictionary to translate and understand simple words.
Francophone Culture
Year 1 Curriculum Overview
In the Autumn term, Year 1 will be introduced to key elements of Francophone culture through a variety of exciting and meaningful topics. In Term 1, pupils will learn about Les Jeux Olympiques taking place in France and will begin to recognise important French symbols such as the national flag and its colours. They will explore the differences between England and France, identify famous French monuments, especially those found in Paris and be introduced to French foods and the tradition of Halloween. In Term 2, they will learn about commemorations linked to Armistice Day, including the use of poppies and cornflowers. Pupils will also be introduced to French animals, experience French poetry, and discover Christmas traditions in France, including festive foods like la bûche de Noël.
Term
Autumn 1
Autumn 2
Spring 1
Spring 2
Summer 1
Summer 2
What are we studying?
Year 1 will learn about Les Jeux Olympiques in France. Recognise the French flag and state its colours. Identify differences between England and France. Recognise famous French monuments, especially in Paris. Be introduced to French foods. Learn about the French Halloween tradition.
The pupils will be introduced to French commemorations (Armistice, poppies, and cornflowers). Learn the names of French animals. Explore simple French poetry. Discover French Christmas traditions. Learn about festive French foods such as la bûche de Noël.
Year 1 will explore a range of vibrant French and Francophone traditions linked to the start of the new year. Pupils will learn about la galette des rois, identifying its key ingredients and understanding its significance in celebrating Epiphany, including the tradition of choosing a king or queen. They will be introduced to colourful celebrations such as Carnival in France (Nice and Dunkerque). Pupils will also discover how La Saint-Valentin (Valentine’s Day) is celebrated in France and take part in learning about Pancake Day and its cultural importance through fun, hands-on experiences.
The pupils will continue to explore cultural events and important social values in the Francophone world. Pupils will learn about International Women’s Day and its significance, including the life and contributions of the famous French singer Edith Piaf. They will explore the sights and traditions of spring markets and festivals and discover the colourful Festival International de Cerf-Volant (International Kite Festival) in Dunkerque. Pupils will also learn about the fun French April Fool’s Day tradition, le poisson d’avril, and will become familiar with Easter traditions in France.
Year 1 will explore cultural celebrations in France that highlight music, tradition, and seasonal customs. Pupils will learn about La Fête du 1er Mai (May Day), understanding its importance in French culture and recognising the muguet (lily of the valley) as a symbol of good luck. They will take part in a creative activity inspired by this tradition. Pupils will also discover La Fête de la Musique, a national celebration of music in France. As part of this, they will be introduced to Joe Dassin, a well-known French-American singer, and learn to recognise his music as part of French cultural heritage.
The pupils will continue to build their cultural awareness through sport and national celebrations. Pupils will learn about Le Tour de France, one of the most famous cycling races in the world and understand why it is significant in French culture. They will identify key elements of the race, including bicycles, the yellow jersey, mountains, and the iconic finish in Paris, as well as take part in a fun classroom activity linked to the event. Pupils will also locate France on a map, recognise its shape, and identify important cities and landmarks linked to the race. To finish the term, they will learn about Le 14 Juillet (Bastille Day), discovering why it is celebrated and how people in France mark this national holiday today.
In the first half term the pupils will learn about:
Count to 20 and estimate quantities
Partition teen numbers; compare
Count to 100 in 1s/10s; compare
Say 1/10 more or less up to 100
Adding by counting on
Partitioning to create number bonds
Subtraction: count back/take away
Explore shapes and line symmetry
Understand/identify 2-D shapes
How it will be assessed:
In the second half term the pupils will learn about:
Sort 2-D shapes according to properties
Understand/identify 3-D shapes
Coins to 10p: identify & exchange
Make amount/find possibilities
Add by counting on (numbers to 20)
Number bonds to 10
Say one more/one less up to 100
O'clock times and sequence events
Days of the week, months of the year
Termly online assessments are completed by the pupils to demonstrate their depth of understanding of the mathematical topics that they have been studying. In addition, informal oral assessment takes place in lessons throughout the term to consolidate and assess depth of understanding.
Term
Autumn 1
Autumn 2
Spring 1
Spring 2
What are we studying?
Place Value Addition and Subtraction
Shape and Data
Shape and Data Continued Money, Addition and Subtraction Time
Place Value Money, Addition and Subtraction
Place Value Fractions (Measures) Multiplication
Summer 1 Addition and Subtraction Measures and Shapes
Money
Summer 2 Time
Multiplication, Division and Fractions
Data
Organised physical activity is vital to child development, both in terms of strength and growth cognitive, motivational and social skills The Year 1 children will focus on the core skills of two invasion games, football and netball. In football, the children will be taught how to perform the core skills to play the game This will include passing, shooting, dribbling, agility and small sided conditioned games They will learn through partner work and work in group activities in their houses In netball, they will learn the fundamental skills of catching, throwing and movement Students will be taught the basic positions, how to shoot and the different types of passes they can use in competitive game situations
Term
Autumn
Spring
Summer
What are we studying?
Football: Passing, shooting, dribbling, conditioned games.
Netball: Passing, shooting, attack vs defence, positions and conditioned games
Gymnastics: balances, body shapes, travel, jumps and rolls
Games: balance, coordination, agility, throwing and catching.
Cricket: throwing, catching, batting, bowling and fielding
Athletics: sack race, long jump, javelin throw, obstacle race, relay, 60m sprint.
Performing Arts
Year 1 Curriculum Overview
At Hampton Court House, we believe that the performing arts are integral to our school community. Therefore, students will actively participate in various performances throughout the year. These performances form the backbone of our curriculum. We are committed to offering inclusive opportunities that allow every student to showcase their talents.
In our lessons, to prepare for these performances students will focus on developing spatial awareness, musicality, vocal, physical, and character skills to enhance their performance abilities. They will learn stage craft and understand how to engage an audience.
Additionally, we place a strong emphasis on collaborative and creative skills, which are essential for every child's growth. Our classes incorporate engaging games and activities designed to foster teamwork, improve peer interaction, and develop the ability to follow directions. Students are encouraged to contribute creative suggestions through music, movement, and dialogue, ensuring a well-rounded arts education at Hampton Court House.
We begin the year by preparing for our Christmas show, Year 1 students will focus on developing their ballet skills, alongside incorporating singing into their performance.
In Year 1, Drama will be taught in French, enhancing language skills through theatrical expression. By the Easter term, students will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in a dedicated showcase event.
Throughout the year, there will also be numerous recitals and concerts, providing students with platforms to display their musical abilities and talent
PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education)
Our PSHE curriculum in provides pupils with a broad and balanced programme that nurtures their personal development, emotional wellbeing, and understanding of the world around them. It encompasses all areas of PSHE, including the statutory elements of Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education. The curriculum is structured into six key learning themes, delivered across the academic year. These themes are revisited annually, allowing children to deepen and extend their understanding as they progress through the school. This spiral approach ensures that each topic is explored with increasing maturity and relevance, building pupils' confidence, empathy, and resilience at every stage of their development.
Parents have a right to request to withdraw their child from sex education delivered as part of RSE up to three terms before their child turns 16. At this point, if the child themselves wishes to receive sex education rather than be withdrawn, the school will make arrangements for this to happen in one of the three terms before the child turns 16 - the legal age of sexual consent. More information on this will be provided in the parent information meeting in September.
How it will be assessed:
PSHE lessons are predominantly discussion based, with some written tasks for deeper comprehension and application. At the end of the lesson, the students will complete self-reflection sheets for teachers to monitor understanding and adapt future teaching. Teachers keep track of the students’ levels and understanding of the different elements of PSHE across the year.
Autumn 1
Spring 1
Being Me in My World
Feeling special and safe
Being part of a class
Rights and responsibilities
Rewards and feeling proud
Consequences
Owning the learning charter
Relationships
Belonging to a family
Making friends / being a good friend
Physical contact preferences
People who help us
Qualities as a friend and person
Self-acknowledgement
Being a good friend to myself & celebrating special friendships
Dreams & Goals
Setting goals
Identifying successes and achievements
Learning styles
Summer 1
Working well and celebrating achievement
Tackling new challenges
Overcoming obstacles
Feelings of success
Autumn 2
Spring 2
Celebrating Difference
Similarities and differences
Understanding bullying and knowing how to deal with it
Making new friends
Celebrating the differences in everyone
Changing Me
Life cycles
Changes in me
Changes since being a baby
Differences between male and female bodies
Linking growing and learning
Coping with change
Transition
Healthy Me
Keeping myself healthy
Healthier lifestyle choices
Keeping clean
Summer 2
Being safe
Medicine safety
Road safety
Linking health and happiness