I’m an explorer, get me out of here!

The new school year may have only just started, but there has been lots going on in Year One at Pilgrims already. Here, Mrs Collins, teacher of class 1JC discusses what the pupils have been up to over the last few months.

The topic for the autumn term in Year One is ‘I’m an explorer, get me out of here!’. Pupils are learning all about different types of transport and how it has evolved over the years.

First of all we received an ‘SOS’ video call from Kirsty the explorer who is stranded in the jungle. She has found some objects from different modes of transport and has been sending them to us so we can investigate which mode of transport we think would be best to help her escape.

On Tuesday 10 September we took a school trip to Shuttleworth where the children learned all about the aircraft, the history of flight and have a look at the different types of aircraft held in the collection. We even got to watch some aeroplanes and gliders land which was really exciting!

Back at school we have been creating huge timelines to measure the passing of time as we formed a train timeline, writing fact files and poems and using bicycle wheels to create large-scale woven art.

Our creative curriculum has let us explore transport from every angle. We have been measuring our paper aeroplane flights, building bridges for trains and underground tracks, turning cogs to see how bicycle chains work and exploring the shapes we can see on a bicycle in art. After half term we will be heading off on our sponsored bike ride around Bedford Park to raise money for our school charity.

The pupils have been taking part in regular outdoor learning sessions and we were the first year group to use the fantastic new outdoor classroom at Pilgrims. The pupils have enjoyed den building in the woods and exploring mathematical language linked to the ‘pebble people’ we found hiding on the school field.

After half term we are looking forward to a visit from a mechanic who will be showing us how the wheels on cars are fitted and also finding out about floating and sinking as we learn about boats. But most importantly, we will find out if Kirsty has managed to escape from the jungle to join us for Christmas lunch!

At the beginning of the year we introduced a new Year One class to the school. We have asked new Year One teacher, Mr Orr about his time so far and asked what he’s looking forward to this year.

What’s your favourite thing about teaching?

My favourite thing about being a teacher is being able to see children achieving their best and helping them to reach their potential.

What has been your favourite moment from this term so far?

The school trip to Shuttleworth has been my favourite moment so far. The children had a great day and it was a perfect way to launch our new topic about transport.

What are you most looking forward to this term?

I’m really looking forward to the Christmas production. In fact, I can’t wait for all of the Christmas activities we have planned at school.

Describe Pilgrims in three words:

Welcoming, fun, innovative