Hello! My name is Miss Riley and I’m thrilled to be teaching Year 4 at Dovecot Primary School. I have a real passion for creating a positive, engaging classroom where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. I believe in nurturing curiosity, encouraging creativity, and helping every child grow in confidence.

I’m especially passionate about using drama, music, and storytelling in my teaching—perhaps inspired by my love of musical theatre and films! I also enjoy exploring the world through travel and trying new foods, which often sparks some great classroom discussions.

At home, I love spending time with my two dogs, Emmie and Minnie, who keep me busy with beach walks and plenty of muddy adventures!

  

Reading in Year 4

Your child will be given a set of books and a reading diary to bring home. Please ensure these are kept in their book bag and brought to school every day.

Your child will read with myself or Miss Muldoon during the week. In addition, the children will have lots of opportunities to read and enjoy books both at school and at home throughout the term.

Star of the Week

Each Friday, one child’s name will be picked from a hat and chosen to be our Star of the Week. This special role includes helping with classroom jobs, supporting the teacher, and even taking the register with a friend.

General Reminders

• PE will take place every Tuesday – please ensure your child has their full PE kit in school.
• Any letters or reply slips that need to be returned can be placed in your child’s book bag.
• The children are encouraged to check their book bags each morning and hand in letters after the register.

 

Year 4 – Spring 1 Learning 

As we begin the Spring term, Year 4 are set for another exciting half term filled with creativity, discovery and challenge across the curriculum. The children will continue to build on their skills while exploring new texts, concepts and hands-on experiences. Here is an overview of what your child will be learning in Spring 1: 

 

Mathematics – Multiplication & Division B and Length & Perimeter 

In Maths, the children will deepen their understanding of multiplication and division. They will explore patterns in times tables, develop efficient strategies for solving problems, and apply their knowledge to reasoning and real-life contexts. 

Later in the half term, we will move on to Length and Perimeter. The children will measure using standard units, compare lengths, and calculate the perimeter of shapes, using both practical equipment and written methods to strengthen their understanding. 

 

English – Arthur and the Golden Rope by Joe Todd-Stanton 

This half term, we will be immersing ourselves in the adventurous myth Arthur and the Golden Rope. Through this inspiring story, children will explore themes of courage, resilience and heroism. 

Writing Outcome 1: Myth Narrative 
Children will write their own myth, inspired by Arthur’s journey, using rich description, powerful vocabulary and clear story structure. 

Writing Outcome 2: Information Guide 
Children will then produce an information guide linked to the text, developing their ability to write in a factual tone using headings, subheadings and technical vocabulary. 

 

Science – Animals, Including Humans 

In Science, children will explore animals, including humans. They will learn about: 

• Human and animal teeth 

• The digestive system 

• How different animals are adapted to their diets 

Through practical activities and discussion, children will build a strong understanding of how bodies work and why different animals have different needs. 

 

Geography – The Water Cycle 

In Geography, we will study the Water Cycle, exploring how water moves through the environment. Children will learn key processes such as evaporation, condensation and precipitation, and understand how the cycle connects human and physical geography. 

Key themes include: 
Environment, Connection, Interaction, Landscape, Process and Cycle. 

 

PE – Invasion Games (Basketball) 

In PE, Year 4 will be developing their skills through Invasion Games, with a focus on basketball. The children will learn and practise key techniques such as: 

• Dribbling 

• Passing and movement 

• Attacking and defending 

• Game awareness and teamwork 

They will take part in training activities and small-sided games, building confidence, coordination and sportsmanship while applying their skills in real game situations.