Key Stage 1 (Year Groups 1 and 2) marks the beginning of a child’s formal learning journey and provides an environment where curiosity, imagination and early independence are encouraged. In Years 1 and 2 pupils develop the essential literacy and numeracy skills that underpin future learning while building confidence as young learners.
At Aldenham Prep School Riyadh, the Key Stage 1 experience builds upon the strong foundations of the Early Years with a clear focus on core skills, curiosity and growing confidence in learning, delivered in conjunction with the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). The transition from play-based learning to more structured academic study is gradual and carefully supported, ensuring that pupils feel secure as expectations increase. From Year 1 onwards, pupils also benefit from specialist teaching in Physical Education, Art, Music, Arabic and a Foreign Language, enriching their learning experience and promoting well-rounded development in line with the school’s commitment to academic rigour and holistic growth.
Our Key Stage 1 British curriculum introduces children to a rich blend of subjects including English, mathematics, science, humanities, Arabic, creative arts, ICT, music and PE. Lessons are active and engaging, with a strong emphasis on exploration and practical learning. Teachers design activities that help pupils make connections, express their ideas and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from developing new skills.
At this age children learn as much through experiences as they do through direct instruction. Opportunities for creative play, storytelling, problem solving and structured group work help pupils develop social skills, resilience and a positive approach to challenge. Visits, themed days and hands-on projects add variety and help bring learning to life.
Pastoral support plays a central role in Key Stage 1. We focus on helping pupils feel secure, confident and ready to try new things, and we promote kindness, respect and the ability to work well with others. Each child is known as an individual and encouraged to develop good learning habits that will serve them well in later years.
By the end of Year 2 pupils have established strong foundations and are ready to move into Key Stage 2 with growing independence and enthusiasm. Parents remain closely involved in this stage of their child’s development, supported by clear communication and regular opportunities to share in their child’s progress.
Areas of Learning
The Key Stage 1 curriculum is structured around carefully planned areas of learning that ensure depth, balance and progression across subjects. The curriculum includes:
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English (Reading, Writing, Phonics, Spelling)
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Mathematics
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Science
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Arabic
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Computing
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Art & Design
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Music
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Physical Education (PE)
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PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education) & Wellbeing
Within these subjects, phonics, reading, writing and mathematics are taught systematically, ensuring strong academic foundations from the outset. As a result, children become confident readers, clear communicators and independent learners at an early stage of their educational journey.
“Choosing a School which provides a holistic education in
a loving and caring environment is the best gift
a parent can give to their child.”
Aldenham UK
Founded in 1597, Aldenham UK is the flagship of the Aldenham Foundation and is steeped in history, with over 428 years of academic excellence. Aldenham UK - and all of our schools - embodies the best of timeless traditions and universal values, along with a documented history of a forward-thinking culture that’s served to differentiate us from our peers.
At Aldenham, we remember that achievement is an individual matter - whether that’s entry to an Oxbridge college, a sporting or cultural goal, or simply growing up into a well-balanced individual. Dedicated teaching is at the heart of everything we do. While we help our pupils to focus on their own plans, our teachers focus on our pupils.