Understanding the Key Stages: What to Expect in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2

The primary school years are a crucial period for your child’s development, both academically and socially. In England, primary education is divided into two key stages: Key Stage 1 (KS1) and Key Stage 2 (KS2). Each stage follows a structured curriculum designed to equip children with the foundational skills they need for future success. Whether your child is about to embark on their KS1 journey or is preparing to move into KS2, understanding what to expect in each stage will help you support them better.

This blog provides a breakdown of both key stages to guide you through this exciting time.

Key Stage 1 (KS1): Ages 5-7

Key Stage 1 (KS1) marks the beginning of formal education, covering Years 1 and 2. For children aged 5 to 7, this stage focuses on building strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and social skills, while also fostering creativity and curiosity.

What Your Child Will Learn in KS1

1. English:
   • Phonics: Children learn how letters represent sounds and use this to read and write.
   • Reading and Writing: By the end of KS1, children will start reading simple books fluently and writing short sentences.
   • Spelling and Grammar: Basic grammar, punctuation, and spelling patterns are introduced to structure writing.
2. Mathematics:
   • Number and Place Value: Children learn to count, read, and write numbers up to 100 and perform simple addition and subtraction.
   • Shapes and Measurement: They explore 2D and 3D shapes, basic measurements (length, weight, time), and start learning multiplication and division basics.
3. Science:
   • Exploration of the Natural World: Children learn about living things, plants, animals, and materials, encouraging curiosity about their environment.
4. Other Subjects:
   • Art, History, Geography, Computing, Music, and PE: These subjects are taught to help children explore various interests and talents.

Assessment in KS1

• Phonics Screening Check: Taken at the end of Year 1 to assess reading skills.
• End of KS1 SATs: In Year 2, children are assessed in reading, writing, maths, and science. These results guide teachers in identifying areas where further support may be needed.

How You Can Support Your Child in KS1

• Daily Reading: Read together to reinforce the phonics and vocabulary they learn at school.
• Encourage Curiosity: Ask questions about what they’re learning and engage in educational play or activities related to their subjects.
• Practice Basic Maths: Use everyday activities like cooking or shopping to practice counting and basic addition and subtraction

Key Stage 2 (KS2): Ages 7-11

Key Stage 2 (KS2) covers Years 3 to 6, for children aged 7 to 11. During this stage, the curriculum becomes more structured and challenging, with a greater focus on deepening knowledge and skills across a range of subjects. KS2 prepares children for the transition to secondary school.

What Your Child Will Learn in KS2

1. English:
   • Reading Comprehension: Children read more fluently and begin to discuss themes, characters, and vocabulary in both fiction and non-fiction texts.
   • Writing: Writing becomes more structured, with a focus on stories, essays, and reports. Grammar and punctuation rules are emphasized.
   • Speaking and Listening: Verbal communication is enhanced through presentations, debates, and group discussions.
2. Mathematics:
   • Complex Calculations: Children advance in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with larger numbers.
   • Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages: They explore these concepts along with geometry and data handling.
   • Problem-Solving: Children tackle multi-step problems, applying their maths skills in real-world situations.
3. Science:
   • Scientific Exploration: KS2 delves deeper into topics like electricity, forces, light, sound, human biology, and ecosystems. Children conduct simple experiments to apply what they’ve learned.
4. Other Subjects:
   • History and Geography: Students study key historical periods like Ancient Egypt, Romans, and Vikings, while geography lessons focus on both physical and human geography.
   • Art, Design and Technology, Music, Languages, and PE: Children explore more complex projects and creative expression, with language lessons often including French or Spanish.

Assessment in KS2

• Ongoing Teacher Assessment: Teachers continually assess students through their classwork and projects.
• End of KS2 SATs: In Year 6, children take SATs in reading, writing, maths, and grammar. These assessments gauge their readiness for secondary school.

How You Can Support Your Child in KS2

• Encourage Reading for Pleasure: Help your child find books they enjoy improving fluency and comprehension.
• Support Homework and Projects: Provide a quiet, organized space for them to work on assignments and projects.
• Explore Subjects Together: Visit museums, watch documentaries, or take trips related to what they’re learning in history, geography, or science to deepen their interest and understanding.

Key Differences Between KS1 and KS2

• Depth of Learning: While KS1 introduces foundational concepts, KS2 builds on them with more complex topics, particularly in maths, science, and English.
• Independence: KS2 encourages children to take more responsibility for their work and time management, fostering greater independence.
• Preparation for Secondary School: By the end of KS2, children are prepared academically and socially for the transition to secondary education.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences and expectations of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 is key to helping your child thrive throughout their primary school years. By staying engaged with their learning, reinforcing key skills at home, and fostering a love for reading and exploration, you can support your child’s development at each stage. Whether they’re just starting their KS1 journey or getting ready for KS2, your involvement will make their primary school experience more enriching and enjoyable.