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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term and Year Summary 2025/2026
Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
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Contents Introduction
3
Art
6
Découverte du Monde
7
English
10
Forest School
12
French
13
Francophonie Culture
14
Maths
16
Physical Education
18
Performing Arts
20
PSHE
21
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview
Spring Term 2026
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.
Curriculum Intent, Implementation and Impact 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 Frenchspeaking environment. Students are encouraged to express themselves in the target language using songs, roleplaying, 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
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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.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview
Spring Term 2026
Key Contacts Susie Byers Head of Prep sby@hchnet.co.uk Katy Deacon Vice Principal Academic skde@hchnet.co.uk Eldon Fayers Assistant Principal | Teaching & Learning efa@hchnet.co.uk
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Rob Armiger Assistant Principal | Director of Studies rwa@hchnet.co.uk
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
Art
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Year summary
Spring content
In a co-curricular project to reinforce their learning about the extreme environments of the North and South poles, the children will be learning about Ernest Shackleton and his attempt to be the first to lead an expedition across the Antarctic. The children will make art in response to the story, first creating characters to represent the crew who he selected, then drawing the ship and kit that he needed for his expedition. Students will end the topic by using mixed media collage to create their interpretation of the harsh environment which the explorers encountered.
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
Trees: Making art in response to ‘The Tree of Life’, by Gustav Klimt and ‘Surprised! (or Tiger in a Tropical Storm)’, by Henri Rousseau. Focusing on pattern, shape, symbolism, collage and drawing skills.
Autumn 2
Trees continued: Making art in response to the art of Andy Goldsworthy and Piet Mondrian. Focusing on temporary art, sculpture, tonal values, pattern and introduction to acrylic paint.
Spring 1
Ernest Shackleton: Pupils will read William Grill’s telling of Ernest Shackleton’s expedition to cross the Antarctic, making art in response to the illustrations in the book. Building upon drawing skills by looking at new techniques and approaches, introducing mixed media.
Spring 2
Superheroes: Working on a large-scale collaborative piece, pupils will study the drawings of James Gulliver Hancock and create a cityscape in which to place various superheroes, villains and villainous inventions.
Summer 1
Clay: Birds. Looking at the bird studies of Matt Sewell and John James Audubon, students will learn watercolour techniques to paint different birds. Pupils will each make and decorate a clay bird to be fired in the kiln, revisiting pinch pot techniques and expanding on skills with clay modelling and building techniques.
Summer 2
Sewing project: Taking inspiration from textile designer Donna Wilson, pupils will design and stitch a soft toy. This project aims to develop fine motor skills and revisits mastery of a basic running stitch.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
Découverte du Monde (Discovering the World) Spring content
DDM is split into discrete subjects in order to cover a wide range of knowledge across humanities and sciences. Whilst it is an interlinked curriculum, we ensure that the essential foundation of knowledge needed for the later years of prep in each subject and senior are covered. History: In Year 2 this term, we will learn about events behind living memory that are significant nationally or globally: Women’s Day with Amelia Earhart and Joan of Arc. This will help us understand how the lives of others in the past have contributed to our present-day advancements and improvements. We will also learn about significant historical events through Bastille Day, French fish day and Easter. Geography: We will discover the Earth and its representations (globe, planisphere, maps) in relation to the Equator and using cardinal points. We will be identifying countries on different continents by reading maps and get key information about landscape physical features and climate. We will deepen our understanding of the United Kingdom by naming, locate and identify characteristics of the four countries and capital cities of the United Kingdom. We will also discover the culture, flag and capital of Madagascar, Russia, Germany, Portugal, Canada, Senegal, Japan and Finland. Science: This term Year 2 will be studying the topic of ‘Living things and their habitats.’ They will recognise whether things are alive, dead or have never lived, identify different plants and animals and understand how they are suited to their different habitats, including micro-habitats, recognise how different habitats provide for the basic needs of animals and plants, understand that animals get their food from other animals and/or from plants and finally recognise that a food chain is made of a series of plants and animals that eat each other and also shows how energy is transferred from one organism to another via
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Year summary
food.
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
Read the time on a digital watch and situate the moments of the day looking at our school timetable. Use a timeline to order events. Events behind living memory that are significant nationally or globally: Remembrance Day (France and UK). Learning about the role of the monarch, Queen Victoria, Elizabeth II and King Charles III. Explore a selection of materials and discuss how they might be tested for their suitability Understand the difference between man-made and natural materials.
Autumn 2
Discover the history behind Versailles. Learn about Louis XIV and his influence on France. Observe the various states of matter (gas, liquid, solid) and its changes. Know the process of the water cycle.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
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Year summary
Découverte du Monde Term
What are we studying?
Spring 1
Identify and name continents, oceans and the four cardinal points. Link climates and landscapes. Identify cold and hot areas in the world in relation to the Equator. To identify the United Kingdom and its countries on a map; know their flags and their capital cities, customs, and traditions. Identify that most living things live in habitats to which they are suited and describe how different habitats provide for the basic needs of different kinds of animals and plants, and how they depend on each other.
Spring 2
Use world maps, atlases and globes to locate countries. Focused work on the following countries: Switzerland, Germany, Portugal, Russia and Madagascar. Use simple compass directions to describe the location of features and routes on a map. Describe how animals obtain their food from plants and other animals, using the idea of a simple food chain, and identify and name different sources of food.
Summer 1
Events behind living memory that are significant nationally or globally, focus on the Wright Brothers and Amelia Earhart Exploration of the new world: Christopher Colombus. Discover the inventor’s role in developing exploration. Explore the birth cycle of animals and humans Describe the importance for humans of exercise, eating the right amounts of different types of food, and hygiene.
Summer 2
Recognise the different typologies of landscapes and use basic geographical vocabulary. Sustainability with links to exploitation of resources inf rain forest; protection and preservation. Observe and describe how seeds and plants grow. Understand the needs of plants and what is meant by dispersal.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
English Spring content
The children will continue to work through the RWI programme in the morning and complete the child focussed and targeted tasks set by each group leader. Year Two will start the Spring Term by reading and range of stories set in the wild, then we explore a range of nonfiction texts about creatures under the sea and then the children will have fun reading a range of monster themed poems. After half term the children will look at a range of traditional tales from other cultures, diaries and recounts and finish the term by reading a range of humorous poems. How it will be assessed Assessment will be through daily marking and feedback. Through discussion and questioning. At the end of each unit the children will be writing in the style of the author or poet they have been reading. There will also be informal assessment of writing, reading and SPaG at the end of each term.
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Year summary
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
Well-being: Umbrellas and rain Stories with familiar settings Letters and postcards Fantasy: Just imagine
Autumn 2
Traditional Tales and Fables Information texts Poetry: classic poems
Spring 1
Stories set in the wild Non-fiction texts – creatures under the sea Monster poems
Spring 2
Traditional Tales Diaries and recounts Humorous poems
Summer 1
Stories by the same author – Lauren Child Recounts: Reading & Writing Recounts Poems on a Theme: Happy Poems
Summer 2
Fantasy: Quest Stories Persuasive Writing: Bedtime Arguments, Adverts & Letters Poems on a Theme: Happy Poems
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
Forest School Spring content
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 in Forest School. 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. Our curriculum links to Science, Art and Geography. And considers the wellbeing of every child as we go through the curriculum. 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.
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Year summary
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
Safety in the natural environment and taking safe and supervised risks
Autumn 2
Observing the changes in weather and in the natural environment for Autumn and Winter Celebrate Autumn Harvest and Christmas.
Spring 1
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
Spring 2
Fairytales and stories that link to play in the natural environment Celebrate National Wildlife Day
Summer 1
Observing new changes in the natural environment coming into Spring and planting Celebrate World Bee Day
Summer 2
Minibeasts, map making and treasure seeking.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
French
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Year summary
Spring content
In the Spring term, Year 2 will carry on their French learning journey by exploring a range of key sounds including [an] and [on]. They will learn vocabulary related to animals in the forest, ocean and savanna. They will also learn name of countries and their nationalities. They will discover the masculine and feminine nouns. In the second half of the term, they will focus on new sounds such as [ou], [in] and expand their vocabulary about professions, workplaces, transports. Year 2 will also explore simple grammar rules, such as discover singular and plural nouns.
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
We will learn the complex sounds [a], [i], [u], [e], [o]. We will learn vocabulary about themselves, politeness, instructions, stationery. They will also start to use full sentences in French to express their needs. To discover how to use a bilingual dictionary to translate and understand simple words.
Autumn 2
We will learn the sounds [é], [ch], [r], [j]. We will learn vocabulary about numbers from 20 to 30, colours, weather, daily routine (entire day). They will discover some grammar rules, such as conjugate the noun to the adjective.
Spring 1
We will learn the sounds [an], [on]. We will learn vocabulary about animals in the forest, ocean and savanna. They will also learn name of countries and their nationalities. They will discover the masculine and feminine nouns.
Spring 2
We will discover the following new complex sounds [ou], [in]. They will also discover singular and plural nouns. We will learn vocabulary about professions, workplaces, transports.
Summer 1
We will discover the following new complex sounds [oi], [eil]. We will learn vocabulary about physical description, personality traits. We will discover some grammar rules, such as the present tense of the verbs to be and to have using je/tu/il/elle. Year 2 will write a letter to a penpal in Belgium through the Culture lesson.
Summer 2
Year 2 will be able to read and find independently information to answer comprehension questions through Sami and Julie level 1 beginner. We will discover some grammar rules, such as the present tense -er verbs using je/tu/il/elle. We will learn vocabulary about instruments, leisure, sports, activities.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
Francophonie Culture In Spring term, Year 2 will explore a variety of traditions and celebrations that are integral to Belgian life.
Spring content
We will begin by learning about la galette des rois, a traditional pastry enjoyed during Epiphany, and explore the lively carnival of Binche, famous for its vibrant parades and festivities. Valentine's Day in Belgium will also be discussed, highlighting its romantic traditions, alongside the popular Candlemas, or Pancake Day, where Belgian people indulge in delicious crêpes. In the second part of the term, students will focus on Isala Van Diest during International Women's Week, Belgium’s first female doctor. As spring approaches, we will discover the various spring celebrations, including the Festival van Vlaaderen which involves theatre, music and dance. The term will conclude with a study of le poisson d’avril, France and Belgium’s version of April Fools’ Day, and the
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Year summary
country’s Easter traditions, offering insights into Belgian customs surrounding these holidays.
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
This half term, the children locate Belgium on a map, recognise its flag and find out about the capital Brussels and its monuments. They will discover Belgian food and drink, as well as be introduced the tradition of Halloween.
Autumn 2
The pupils will be introduced to the comic writers originating from Belgium. They will read some, watch some and create their own. They will also look at the classic architecture of Belgium and finally focus on the Belgian traditions at Christmas time.
Spring 1
Year 2 will begin the term with an introduction to the ‘Galette des Rois’. They will learn about the royal family of Belgium. They will also enjoy French and Belgian pancake day and look at the festival of Saint Valentin.
Spring 2
This term will begin with an introduction to the ‘Carnaval de Binche’, create our own masks and find out about the celebrations. The children will learn about Isala Van Diest for International Women’s Day and will also find out about the Festival Van Vlaaderen. We will finish with understanding the traditions of Easter in Belgium.
Summer 1
We begin by finding out about the wildlife in Belgium. Then the children will work on la ‘Fete du 1er mai’. They will also go back in time to learn about the history of Belgium through the Battle of Waterloo.
Summer 2
In this half term, the children will find out about Ommegang – a historical Belgian celebration. Year 2 will discover the Belgian artist Rene Magritte. The children will recreate art in his style. We will also learn about La Fete Nationale de la Belgique – 21 juillet. 14
Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
Spring content
Maths In the first half term the pupils will learn about:
In the second half term the pupils will learn about:
Ordinal numbers and properties of numbers
Count in 2s, 5s, 10s and learn 5x table facts
Properties of numbers, including odd and
Understand division as the inverse of multiplication
even
Solve multiplication and division problems
Use facts, patterns, and Place Value to add
Find change
and subtract
Subtract by counting back
Use number lines and 100 grids to add and
Subtract by counting up; choose a strategy
subtract
Units of time and telling the time
Find fractions of shapes (1/2, 1/4, 1/3)
Multiply by 2, 5, and 10
Find fractions of amounts (1/2, 1/4, 1/3)
Multiplying, doubling, and understanding inverses
Find money totals and solve word problems Add and double by partitioning .
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Year summary
How it will be assessed 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
What are we studying?
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
Place Value and Money Addition and Subtraction Multiplication and Division
Autumn 2
Measures Addition & Subtraction Shape and Data
Spring 1
Place Value and Fractions Addition and Subtraction Multiplication and Division
Spring 2
Time Multiplication and Division
Summer 1
Number, Fractions, Money Calculation Strategies
Summer 2
Puzzles and Problems More calculation: Ready for Y3?
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
Physical Education Spring content
During the Spring term of 2026, Year 2 students will focus on gymnastics and games. In the gymnastics component, students will explore spatial awareness and learn to manoeuvre through their surroundings using different body parts. They will engage in activities that involve creating basic body shapes, performing balances, jumps, and rolls, utilizing simple equipment and mats. Ultimately, they will integrate these movements into a unified gymnastics sequence. In benchball and dodgeball, students will focus on enhancing their teamwork abilities and strategic thinking in competitive team settings, as well as familiarizing themselves with additional game rules.
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Year summary
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
Football: Passing, shooting, dribbling, conditioned games. Netball: Passing, shooting, attack vs defence, positions and conditioned games
Autumn 2
Football: Passing, shooting, dribbling, conditioned games. Netball: Passing, shooting, attack vs defence, positions and conditioned games
Spring 1
Gymnastics: balances, body shapes, travel, jumps and rolls Games: balance, coordination, agility, throwing and catching.
Spring 2
Gymnastics: balances, body shapes, travel, jumps and rolls Games: balance, coordination, agility, throwing and catching.
Summer 1
Cricket: throwing, catching, batting, bowling and fielding Athletics: sack race, long jump, javelin throw, obstacle race, relay, 60m sprint.
Summer 2
Cricket: throwing, catching, batting, bowling and fielding Athletics: sack race, long jump, javelin throw, obstacle race, relay, 60m sprint.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
Performing Arts Year summary
At Hampton Court House, we believe that the performing arts are integral to our school community. Therefore, are curriculum is built around students actively participating in various performances throughout the year. 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 2 students will focus on developing their ballet skills, alongside incorporating singing into their performance. In Year 2, 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
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platforms to display their musical abilities and talents.
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Year 2 Curriculum Overview Spring Term 2026
PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) Our PSHE curriculum 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,
Spring content
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
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Year summary
different elements of PSHE across the year.
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 1
Being Me in my World Hope and fears for the year Rights and responsibilities Rewards and consequences Safe & fair learning environment Valuing contributions Choices Recognising feelings
Spring 1
Relationships Different types of family Physical contact boundaries Friendship and conflict Secrets Trust & appreciation Expressing appreciation for special relationships
Summer 1
Healthy Me Achieving realistic goals Perseverance Learning strengths Learning with others Group cooperation Contribution to & sharing success
Term
What are we studying?
Autumn 2
Celebrating Difference Assumptions & Stereotypes about gender Understanding bullying Standing up for self & others Making new friends Diversity Celebrating difference & remaining friends
Spring 2
Summer 2
Changing Me Life cycles in nature Growing from young to old Increasing independence Differences in female & male bodies Assertiveness Preparing for transition
Dreams and Goals Motivation Healthier choices Relaxation Healthy eating & nutrition Healthier snacks & sharing food
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