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    Islands Reflect & Review

    30 January 2026 (by Stefan Mitsis (Stefan))

    How quickly has the week gone?! We have managed to fit lots of learning and enquiry into each of our subjects.

     The children in Islands have been very keen to show Molly, who will be with us for a couple of weeks, just how hard we work and what a great time we have together. They have been welcoming, enthusiastic, and proud to share their learning.

    In Maths, learning has looked a little different across the phase. In Sumatra, the children have come to the end of their unit on place value within 20. They have been confidently showing what they have learned through each enquiry question, demonstrating their understanding of tens and ones, comparing numbers, ordering, and explaining their thinking using resources and representations. It has been fantastic to see how much progress they have made and how clearly they can talk about their maths.

    In Tahiti, the children have been exploring doubling and beginning their introduction to multiplication. They have used practical equipment and visual models to help them understand what doubling means and how it links to making equal groups. The children have enjoyed spotting doubles in real-life contexts and explaining their ideas using mathematical language.

    In topic, the children became scientists, exploring a range of everyday materials. They investigated which materials were absorbent and which were waterproof, using careful observation and testing. Before experimenting, the children made hypotheses, predicting what they thought would happen and explaining their reasoning. They then tested materials such as fabric, paper, plastic, and foil, recording results and discussing what they noticed. This hands-on enquiry helped them develop scientific vocabulary and thinking skills, as well as an understanding of how materials are suited to different purposes.

    In musical theatre, the children have continued to practise their singing and actions to The Sun’ll Come Out Tomorrow. Their confidence and expression are really growing, and they are enjoying performing together as a group.

    It has been another busy and rewarding week of learning. We hope you all have a lovely weekend and look forward to welcoming everyone back next week!

    Key Information:

    Home Learning:

    Tahiti

    • Spelling
    • Handwriting
    • White Rose maths sheet

    Sumatra

    • White Rose
    • Handwriting
    • Oxford Owl

    Key Stage 1: Phonics Workshop

    Monday 9th February | 3:00–4:00pm Parents and carers are invited to attend our Key Stage 1 Phonics Workshop. The session will provide a short overview of phonics in Key Stage 1 and share clear, practical ways you can support your child’s phonics and early reading at home. Attendance is strongly encouraged, as phonics is a vital foundation for reading and writing. Attending this workshop will help ensure consistent support between home and school, giving your child the best chance to make strong progress. We look forward to welcoming you.