Year 1 Oak
Year 1 includes children in the age range from 5-6 years of age. We believe that young learners learn best by doing and we encourage our children to take that approach and we support them in ‘having a go’. Exciting topics and play activities help make Year One a stimulating time to learn.
Miss Akhurst
Miss Akhurst joined Meadowside in March 2015 and teaches Monday – Friday in year 1. She has extensive experience of how the little people’s minds work and we are very lucky to have her on our team. Miss Akhurst leads Science and Design and Technology and is very passionate about their profile in the primary curriculum. She is also a member of the English team.
“It is an absolute pleasure to come to school each day and work with such fantastic and enthusiastic children and staff! Everyone is so friendly and kind and it truly is a family atmosphere.”
Year 2 Beech Class
Year 2 includes children from 6-7 years of age and are the oldest children in the infants. We like to take on extra responsibility to set a good example to the younger children. At the end of Year 2, the children undertake SATs to help identify next steps for the beginning of Key Stage 2. A big part of our curriculum in the summer helps prepare the children for this transition.
The Year 2 Teacher is Miss Mellersh, who joined Meadowside in 2006. She has taught across all of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, making her a highly skilled and experienced member of our team. She is also member of our Senior Leadership Team. Miss Mellersh leads English and is very passionate about the difference that reading and writing can make to childrens’ lives. Miss Mellersh works Monday – Friday in Year 2.
“I thoroughly enjoy teaching at Meadowside, and think we make a fantastic school family with a love for learning and enthusiasm for life. Teaching our young children to be responsible, courteous citizens is an absolute must, and we do it brilliantly!!”
Year 1 and 2 Support Staff
Mrs Hamilton joined us in September 2021 but has worked as a volunteer at Meadowside for much longer! She completed her teaching assistant qualification with us in 2020 and we are delighted to be able to welcome her to the Meadowside family. Mrs Hamilton is very passionate about her role and really enjoys the pride of children moving on in their learning.
“I love my job and come to school each morning with a smile on my face. Meadowside is a brilliant inclusive family and the people within it makes everyday fun and exciting. My passion is helping children to find their yes moment, when they realise they can do it!”.
Year 1 are supported by the lovely Mrs Nicholson. Mrs Nicholson joined us in 2024 and uses her expert skills as a trained teacher to bring the best out of children at Meadowside. We are very lucky to have her in our team.
“Hello! Even though I haven’t been here for very long, I already know how lucky I am to be part of the Meadowside family. I love coming to school every day to help the children in their learning, and to work with such a kind and talented team. Thank you for being so welcoming and I look forward to the rest of the year in Oak Class!”
Mrs Weaving joined Meadowside in 2018 and has worked primarily in Key Stage 1. Mrs Weaving’s kind and caring approach ensures that children flourish under her care. She has an excellent set of skills are powerful across all ages in at our school.
The year 2 team are also supported by Miss Visaranta, a professionally qualified Teaching Assistant who joined Meadowside in September 2015. Miss Visaranta works 1:1, or in very small groups across Key Stage 1. If something arty has gone up in school, you can be sure Miss Visaranta is behind it! We are very lucky to have such a talented member of our team on board!
“Hello everyone! I’m pleased to be working at Meadowside Primary School. I live local to the area and my main passion is creativity.”
