Starting primary school is an exciting milestone for both children and parents. At Cambridge School of Bucharest (CSB), our Key Stage 1 programme for ages 5-7 (Years 1 and 2) is designed to provide a strong academic foundation within a fun, nurturing, and engaging environment. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about Key Stage 1 and what makes it such a special stage in your child’s learning journey.
What is Key Stage 1 in the British Curriculum?
Key Stage 1 is the first stage of formal primary education in the National Curriculum in England, typically for children aged 5 to 7. At CSB, we follow this internationally respected framework, focusing on building essential skills in literacy and numeracy, alongside a broad and balanced curriculum.
This stage lays the groundwork for all future learning, helping children develop confidence, independence, and a love of school.
What does a typical day look like?
Learning in Key Stage 1 at CSB is both structured and exciting. Students take part in lessons covering English, mathematics, science, and a range of creative and exploratory subjects such as art, music, and physical education.
Our classrooms are lively, supportive spaces where children are encouraged to ask questions, collaborate, and enjoy the learning process. With a native English-speaking classroom teacher and a dedicated teaching assistant in every class, students receive personalised attention and support throughout the day.
How do you support reading and writing development?
We place a strong emphasis on literacy from the very beginning. Our robust reading programme is built around Phonics, helping students develop the skills needed to read fluently and confidently. Children are guided step by step, learning how sounds and letters work together to form words.
Students are grouped in line with their individual starting points, with groupings reviewed regularly and adapted throughout the year to reflect ongoing progress and ensure appropriate support and challenge. This structured approach supports reading and strengthens spelling and writing skills, giving young learners the tools they need to express themselves clearly.
What about mathematics?
Mathematics in Key Stage 1 is taught through a structured numeracy programme that challenges while making learning enjoyable. Children develop a strong understanding of numbers, patterns, and problem-solving through interactive and engaging lessons. As a school, we offer support beyond the classroom, giving students the opportunity to access online learning resources to enhance their numeracy skills.
By focusing on both fluency and reasoning, we ensure that students build confidence in mathematics and are well prepared for more advanced concepts in later years.
How does strong literacy and numeracy support future success?
Developing strong literacy and numeracy skills at an early age is essential for long-term academic achievement. These core skills underpin all areas of learning, from understanding complex texts to solving real-world problems.
At CSB, we ensure that students leave Key Stage 1 with a solid foundation, enabling them to approach future challenges with confidence and capability. This early investment in learning supports greater outcomes as students progress through Primary, Secondary, and beyond.
What if my child does not speak English?
We are proud to be an international school, welcoming students from a wide range of linguistic backgrounds.
In Key Stage 1, students are supported within the Phonics programme at a level appropriate to their current stage of English development. This ensures that every child builds strong foundational language skills at a pace that suits them, while fully participating in classroom learning and school life.
How do you make learning fun and engaging?
At CSB, we believe that children learn best when they are excited and inspired. Our Key Stage 1 students take part in a variety of special events and immersive learning experiences throughout the year.
From the International Women’s Day Pop-up Art Gallery to our Winter and Summer Shows, students have many opportunities to express themselves through performance and the creative arts. These events also bring parents and the wider community into school life, strengthening our sense of belonging.
Across Key Stage 1, students go on a number of trips that reflect what they have been learning in the classroom, helping to deepen and enhance their understanding in a different, real-world setting.
What values do students learn at CSB?
Our approach is underpinned by our learning values of Independence, Resilience, Critical Thinking, Organisation, and Collaboration. These values are embedded across all areas of school life and are explicitly developed through teaching and learning.
By fostering Independence and Resilience, students build the confidence to take risks and persevere. Through Critical Thinking and Organisation, they are equipped to achieve success in their learning. Behaviour and Collaboration support a strong sense of belonging, ensuring that all students feel respected, supported, and able to thrive within our school community.
Why choose Key Stage 1 at Cambridge School of Bucharest?
Key Stage 1 at CSB offers the perfect balance of academic, creativity, and care. With dedicated teachers, a supportive environment, and a strong focus on both learning and wellbeing, students are given everything they need to succeed.
Most importantly, they begin their educational journey feeling confident, valued, and inspired, ready to take on the next stages of learning with enthusiasm and resilience.