Redwood

Welcome to Redwood Class, our purposeful, ambitious and knowledge-rich Year 3 learning environment at Axbridge Church of England Academy. Taught by Mrs Emery and supported by Mrs Lange (HLTA), Redwood Class marks the beginning of Key Stage Two—a significant step where pupils deepen their academic skills, broaden their worldviews, and embrace greater independence and responsibility. On Fridays, the class is additionally taught by Mr Shillabeer, and Mr Sage leads high-quality French lessons each week.

In Redwood Class, pupils build on the strong foundations of Key Stage One and move into more extended, challenging learning sequences across our Axbridge Inquiry Curriculum. Lessons are carefully structured to support the transition into KS2 expectations, focusing on higher-order thinking, increased stamina, and the ability to make connections across subjects. Children explore rich, meaningful concepts through enquiry, discussion, practical investigation and creative application.

Reading and writing continue to be central components of the curriculum. Pupils engage with a wide range of high-quality texts, using them to develop comprehension, vocabulary, inference and written expression. Writing becomes more sophisticated, with attention to structure, audience, style and accuracy. In mathematics, children build fluency in key number concepts while developing reasoning and problem-solving strategies that deepen conceptual understanding.

The learning environment in Redwood Class is orderly, engaging and designed to promote independence. Clear routines, high expectations and accessible resources support pupils as they take increasing ownership of their learning. Oracy, collaborative tasks and structured discussion are embedded throughout the day, ensuring pupils can articulate their thinking confidently and clearly.

Enrichment opportunities remain integral. Whether conducting science investigations, exploring local geography, welcoming local artists, or taking part in whole-school events, pupils are encouraged to think like subject specialists and apply their learning beyond the classroom setting.

Across Redwood Class, our school values of Community, Love and Courage shape daily interactions and learning behaviours. Pupils demonstrate respect, kindness, teamwork and perseverance, taking pride in their achievements and supporting one another through challenges. Strong communication between home and school ensures we understand every child’s needs, progress and wellbeing throughout the year.

Redwood Class is a year of growth, challenge and exciting discovery. It is a time when academic skills strengthen, confidence blossoms and pupils begin to see themselves as responsible, reflective and motivated learner, ready to embrace all the opportunities Key Stage Two offers.