How we aim high in Year 1
At Olderfleet Primary, we believe that learning should begin with curiosity, joy, and high expectations—and that’s exactly what you’ll see in our Year 1 classroom every day.
From the moment our children start school, we aim high. Not in a pressured or overwhelming way, but in a way that shows our belief in what they are capable of. We know that young children are naturally eager to learn, and when that enthusiasm is nurtured, it becomes a powerful foundation for future success.
Our approach is rooted in practical, hands-on experiences. You’re just as likely to find our Year 1 pupils building, exploring, creating, and playing as you are to see them writing or reading. This is why quality, well planned, play based learning is so important. These meaningful, active learning opportunities develop essential skills—fine motor control, coordination, communication, and confidence—long before a pencil even touches the page. And when it does, it feels natural and purposeful.
Fun is not an “extra” in our classrooms—it’s central to everything we do. When children are engaged and enjoying their learning, they are more motivated, more resilient, and more willing to challenge themselves. And that’s when real progress happens.
Fun is not an “extra” in our classrooms—it’s central to everything we do.
Because our children are so motivated, we are able to gently but confidently push them on to achieve highly. We don’t limit what they can do based on their age—we support them to go further, to think deeper, and to take pride in their achievements. The result is children who not only meet expectations, but often exceed them.
In Year 1 at Olderfleet Primary, we are not just teaching early skills—we are building confident, capable learners who love coming to school and are ready for whatever comes next.
Emma Brownlees, Year 1 Teacher