K1

Preparing for School with Joyful Learning

K1 (ages 4–5) focuses on strengthening early academic skills while fostering independence and problem-solving abilities. Children develop early reading and writing through phonics, grow confident in numbers and problem-solving, and continue to explore science, art, music, and nature. Group projects and cooperative games build teamwork and leadership.

A Blend of EYFS and leading educational philosophies

At Upward, our K1 program builds upon the EYFS framework, strengthening the Prime Areas of learning while deepening focus on Specific Areas such as early literacy, foundational numeracy, and developing a broader understanding of the world. Through the Reggio-Waldorf approach, we nurture children’s curiosity with topic/project-based learning, hands-on experiments, creative arts, music, and nature-inspired activities. Lessons are designed to encourage collaboration, independent thinking, and problem-solving, while teachers provide gentle guidance that helps children make connections, express ideas confidently, and develop the resilience to take on new challenges.

Growing Minds, Expanding Horizons

In our K1 program, children build on the foundations laid in Nursery, exploring new concepts with curiosity and confidence. They begin early reading, writing, and number work alongside rich creative experiences like storytelling, art, music, and science exploration. Through a mix of guided learning and self-directed play, they develop problem-solving skills, teamwork, and independence — setting the stage for a smooth and successful transition to K2.

A World of Opportunities

To make learning truly holistic, we integrate unique programs into our daily routine. Gymnastics keeps children active and physically confident, while Music and Singing spark joy and creativity. Learning a Foreign Language introduces them to new cultures, and Chess trains their minds to think ahead and strategise. These additions enrich our curriculum and make every child’s day dynamic and engaging.

rowth

Key Focus Areas

 Prime Areas of Learning

Communication and Language (CL)

• Speaking in full, clear sentences and using richer vocabulary
• Following multi-step instructions
• Listening attentively to longer stories and recalling details

Physical Development (PD)

• Confident control of large movements — running, jumping, climbing, balancing
• Fine motor control for writing, cutting, and craft work
• Independence in personal hygiene, dressing, and healthy lifestyle choices

Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)

• Taking turns, cooperating in group work, resolving small conflicts independently
• Showing empathy, patience, and self-regulation
• Building confidence to speak in front of others and try new challenges

Specific Areas (stronger focus in K1)

Literacy

• Mastering early phonics — recognising letter sounds and blending them to read CVC words
• Working towards reading simple sentences
• Writing simple words and short sentences using correct letter formation

Mathematics

• Confident counting beyond 20 and understanding number patterns
• Adding and subtracting small numbers practically
• Recognising and describing shapes, comparing size, weight, capacity, and using positional language

Understanding the World

• Exploring simple science concepts — seasons, growth, weather, basic experiments
• Understanding places, basic geography and maps
• Respecting different cultures, festivals, and traditions

Expressive Arts and Design

• Creating art with different media and tools
• Acting out stories, using imagination in play
• Keeping rhythm, singing in tune, and exploring musical patterns