Lower KS2 – Year 3/4 – Willow Base

A Typical Day in Willow 1

Welcome to Willow 2! Year 4 is an exciting and memorable year of primary school, where children reach the end of Lower KS2 and prepare for the challenge of Upper KS2. In Willow 2, we focus on developing resilience, problem-solving skills and children's individual aspirations, helping every child gain the confidence and desire to succeed both academically and personally.

Our class embodies our school vision of Learning, Enjoying, Succeeding Together. Pupils rise to new challenges, celebrate their achievements, and support one another in their learning. We aim to make Year 4 a year of memorable and enjoyable experiences that prepare children for the final stage of their primary education as they head into Upper KS2.

Curriculum Highlights & Enrichment

• History – Romans: Exploring the topic of Romans, understanding what life was like during this period in history. We also take a trip to the Dorset Museum to bring this learning to life.

• Design & Technology: Practical learning such as developing their sewing skills as they create winter stockings.

• Music: Weekly sessions with a music expert to learn a new instrument as a whole class ensemble.

• Swimming: A whole term of swimming sessions at Rossmore leisure centre to develop the key skills of learning how to swim to prepare children for life outside of school.

Class Expectations

• Pupils complete their home learning weekly, including daily times tables practise at home using Times Tables Rock Stars which we review in class to reinforce learning and prepare for assessments.

• Children are encouraged to take pride in their work, be respectful to others, and actively participate in all lessons and enrichment activities.

1:15- 3:15       Foundation Subjects

3:15-3:30        End of day story

Welcome to Willow 1

Year 3 marks an exciting transition as children move from Key Stage 1 into Key Stage 2. It’s a year full of growth, independence, and new opportunities. The classroom is a vibrant, welcoming space where curiosity is encouraged, and every child feels valued. Parents and children can expect a broad and balanced curriculum that builds on the strong foundations laid in KS1, while introducing deeper learning in subjects such as science, history, and maths. We place a strong emphasis on developing confidence, oracy and resilience, helping children to take ownership of their learning.

In Year 3, we live out our vision of “Learning, Enjoying, Succeeding Together” every day. Children learn collaboratively, celebrate achievements big and small, and discover the joy of tackling challenges as a team. Through engaging lessons, creative projects, and opportunities for personal responsibility, we nurture not only academic success but also social and emotional growth. This year sets the tone for the rest of Key Stage 2, ensuring every child feels prepared, motivated, and excited for the journey ahead.

Curriculum Highlights & Enrichment

• Trip to Corfe Castle: In the summer we will visit Corfe Castle to embed our learning we have completed about castles.

• History – Ancient Egyptians: Exploring the life of Ancient Egyptians, we dig deeper into the differences between our life now and back 7000 years ago.

• Design & Technology: Practical learning such as making jam tarts, understanding nutrition, and developing cooking and planning skills.

• Now press play: immersing ourselves in our learning via the pink headphone experiences.

• PE: We will attend weekly swimming sessions on a Thursday, for one term in year 3.

Class Expectations

• Be Ready to Learn – Arrive prepared, listen carefully, and give your best effort in every lesson.

• Show Respect – Treat others kindly, use polite language, and look after school property.

• Work Together – Collaborate with classmates, share ideas, and help each other succeed.