Welcome to Squirrels Class - Year 2
Welcome to the nutty world of Squirrels Class!
We’re so excited to have you with us in Year 2 – a year full of discovery, confidence-building, and new learning adventures. As the final year of Key Stage 1, children begin to take more responsibility for their learning while continuing to explore the world with curiosity and creativity.
On this page, you’ll find lots of useful information to help you stay connected with what we’re learning in class. Each term, we’ll upload curriculum maps so you can see the topics we’re covering and how you can support your child’s learning at home. We’ve also included helpful links to book suggestions.
If you weren’t able to attend the “Meet the Teacher” session, the presentation and key information are available below.
Squirrels Class is a place where children are encouraged to try their best, be kind to one another, and grow in confidence every day. We can’t wait to share a fantastic year of learning, friendship and fun!
Capturing Joy
Photo Showcase
Useful Information
Year 2 is a joyful and important year as children build on the foundations from Year 1 and prepare for the transition to Key Stage 2. In Squirrels Class, we support children to grow in confidence, develop independence, and deepen their love of learning.
This year, children will:
Explore exciting topics in science (plants, habitats, materials), history (explorers, the seaside, Great Fire of London) and geography (Kenya)
Enjoy high-quality books to build reading fluency, comprehension and a love for stories
Develop their writing with more structure, description and creativity
Build confidence with number facts, addition and subtraction, and problem-solving in maths, using White Rose
Investigate the world around them through fun, hands-on science activities
Learn about fascinating people like Samuel Pepys and Wangari Maathai
Develop map skills and begin to understand human and physical geography
Think about values, beliefs and emotions through RE and PSHE
Take part in Collective Worship and class discussions to grow their confidence and sense of community
Enjoy enrichment opportunities including trips, workshops and outdoor learning
At St Katharine’s, Squirrels Class is a place where every child is nurtured, encouraged and inspired to try their best. Our Christian values shape how we learn and care for one another – helping children to be kind, resilient and respectful.
By the end of Year 2, our Squirrels are confident, curious learners – ready to leap into the challenges and adventures of Key Stage 2.
Curriculum
We create Year 2 curriculum maps each term to help families understand what their children will be learning. These maps give a clear overview of the topics and subjects covered, making it easier for parents and carers to support learning at home. By sharing these maps at the start of each term, we aim to keep everyone informed and involved in the exciting learning journey throughout the year. We always aim to go above and beyond the expectations of the National Curriculum, details of which can be found here.
Assessment
In Year 2, we use assessment as a tool to support learning, not just measure it. Our approach ensures that children feel encouraged and challenged, while helping teachers tailor lessons to suit individual needs.
Types of Assessment:
- Informal Assessments – these happen every day through marking, feedback, questioning and observation during lessons.
- Spelling Tests – spellings will be set each week, in line with the national curriculum and children will be tested weekly.
- Foundation Subjects – teachers assess knowledge and skills in subjects like science, history and RE using practical tasks, quizzes and discussion.
- Non-statutory KS1 SATs – towards the end of the year, children will take tests in maths, reading and grammar, spelling and punctuation. Writing will also be assessed.
How We Share Progress:
- Parent Consultations – held in the autumn and spring to discuss how your child is progressing and how you can support at home.
- Written Report –an end-of-year report is provided in July, summarising academic progress and personal development.
- Open Communication – we’re always happy to talk if you have questions about your child’s progress. Please contact your class teacher in the first instance either directly via their email or through the office.
Assessment at St Katharine’s is rooted in our Christian ethos – it’s not about comparing children, but helping every child discover and grow their God-given potential.
Homework
Daily reading (5 x 10 mins) to an adult
Spellings (10 mins spread across the week)
Reading comprehension – supported by an adult (20 mins)
Suggested Book List
With so many great new books being published each year, rather than provide a list that might soon become out of date, we recommend you look at the following sites, visit your local library (librarians are a great source of up-to-date information) or ask at a high-quality bookshop such as Sevenoaks Bookshop, where they have a member of staff dedicated to children’s literature.
Year 2 Books for Topics – Recommended Reads
The books on these lists cover a wide range of genres and reading levels, supporting children as they build confidence, explore big ideas, and grow into thoughtful, resilient individuals. Not all will be suitable for every reader and, if you would like advice with book choices, please speak to your child’s class teacher.
Meet the Teacher
We get up to so much in Squirrels Class!
Documents
Curriculum Maps
Join Squirrels Class Today!
We have space in our Year 2 class. If you’re thinking about moving your child to our school for any reason, please get in touch.