Year 1

Hello and welcome to the Year 1 page of our website! My name is Jamie and I am delighted to be the Year 1 class teacher. I have a real passion for teaching in Key Stage 1 and feel incredibly lucky to work with children at such an exciting and important stage of their learning journey. Over the course of my career so far, I have gained experience across a range of settings, which has helped shape my approach in the classroom and strengthened my belief that every child can thrive when they feel supported, inspired and understood.

One of my greatest joys in teaching is Literacy. I love diving into the incredible stories written for younger children and sharing the magic of books with the class. Exploring characters, language and illustrations together is something I truly value, and I’m always keen to spark curiosity and discussion. A particular favourite author of mine is Jon Klassen, whose stories and illustrations are brilliant for encouraging thoughtful talk, imagination and humour in young readers.

Outside of the curriculum, I am a big fan of dogs, and if there’s ever a chance to include a golden retriever in a lesson, story or activity, I will absolutely take it! Bringing children’s interests and real-world connections into learning is something I believe helps lessons feel meaningful and memorable.

What I love most about working with children is the way their minds are wide open to new ideas. Their curiosity, honesty and willingness to explore the world together is inspiring, and I feel privileged to support them as they grow in confidence, independence and understanding. I look forward to a happy, busy and exciting year of learning together!

Here is some handy information for you going forward:

  • Changing reading books will happen on TUESDAY and FRIDAY each week (please aim to read with your children 3 x weekly at home)
  • PE days are MONDAY and THURSDAY (children to wear PE Kits on these days)
  • Forest School will be starting shortly on a MONDAY (rotating between Group 1 and Group 2, information to follow)
  • Homework is given on a FRIDAY and is due back on or before the following WEDNESDAY

Myself and Mrs Cawston are incredibly approachable so please don’t hesitate to speak to us on the gate or pop a message in the pink communication books.

CONTACT DETAILS

For all immediate enquiries please contact office@brillschool.org.uk 

The Year 1 Team

Mr Backhouse
Mr Backhouse

Year 1 Teacher / Deputy DSL

School Games
Oxford
International School Award
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Primary Science Quality Mark - Gold Award
Healthy School
Trauma Informed and Attachment Aware School - Bronze Award 2025
Level 1 - RHS - School Gardening Award
With the wind in our sails, we shall live ‘life in all its fullness’John 10:10