Year 1

Meet The Team

Sophie Darling: Leopards Class Teacher and Year 1 Team Leader

Bryony Norman: Leopards Class Teacher

Bas Ainscow: Lions Class Teacher

Emma Twidale: Tigers Class Teacher

Jennifer Pykett: Leopards Class Trainee Teacher

Amy Richardson: Lions Class Trainee Teacher

Matt Mooney: PE Teacher

Adriane Lukic: HLTA and Forest School Lead

Georgina Lusted: Inclusion Learning Support Assistant

Francesca Diaconu: Inclusion Learning Support Assistant

Liz Sheaf: Inclusion Learning Support Assistant

Charmiane West: Inclusion Learning Support Assistant

Jane Gregory: Inclusion Learning Support Assistant

Marianne Parker: Inclusion Learning Support Assistant

Claire Nicholson: Inclusion Learning Support Assistant and Year 1 Pastoral Lead

Year One Curriculum

Please find details of our curriculum delivery for Year 1.

About Year One

Year 1 at Olney Infant Academy is an exciting step in a child's learning journey, built on the strong early years ethos developed in Reception. This year is designed to foster independence, creativity, and a love for learning, ensuring children become confident, active learners who apply their knowledge and skills in meaningful ways.

A cornerstone of Year 1 is the belief that learning should be engaging and hands-on. Children take part in Forest School, an enriching experience that connects them with nature, encourages problem-solving, and develops resilience. Outdoor learning is highly valued, providing opportunities for exploration and discovery beyond the classroom walls.

Our unique Rainbow Challenges further nurture independence and curiosity, allowing children to approach learning tasks with confidence and creativity. These challenges encourage pupils to think critically and apply their skills in new and imaginative ways.

Digital learning plays a key role in capturing and reflecting on each child's educational journey throughout the year. Through digital learning journeys, learning experiences are recorded, allowing children and teachers to celebrate progress and achievements online.

Supersonic Phonic Friends provides an energetic and engaging approach to phonics learning, building on the strong foundations laid in Reception. This dynamic method supports children in developing early reading and writing skills, fostering a lifelong love for books and storytelling.

Year 1 is a time of exploration, growth, and confidence-building, ensuring every child is prepared for their next steps in education. By nurturing independence, creativity, and a love for learning, Olney Infant Academy provides a supportive and enriching environment for all learners.