Navigating Year 4
Your interactive guide to the pivotal year of learning, growth, and independence for children aged 8-9.
The Year 4 Snapshot
This section provides a high-level overview of the key changes and focal points in Year 4. Use these interactive elements to quickly grasp the academic leap from Year 3 and understand the single most important national test your child will face this year.
The Jump from Year 3 to Year 4
Year 4 isn’t just a continuation of Year 3; it’s a year of consolidation and increased expectation. The focus shifts towards greater independence and deeper understanding. Use the buttons below to compare the key differences in core subjects.
The Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)
A key focus of Year 4 is the statutory MTC, an online test of times tables up to 12×12. The chart shows which times tables are most likely to appear, highlighting the need for fluent recall.
Hover over the chart to see the details.
Core Subject Deep Dive
This section breaks down the three core pillars of the Year 4 curriculum: English, Maths, and Science. Use the interactive tabs to explore the specific skills and knowledge your child will be developing in each area, from justifying inferences in reading to building simple electrical circuits.
Exploring the Wider World
Beyond the core subjects, Year 4 offers a rich tapestry of learning through foundation subjects. This section provides a glimpse into the topics that foster creativity, cultural understanding, and practical skills. Click on any subject to see the key learning areas.
Key Milestones & Life Skills
Success in Year 4 is about more than just academic grades. It also involves personal growth and developing key life skills. Use these interactive checklists to get a sense of the expected academic standards by the end of the year and the life skills that help build a confident, independent child.
End-of-Year Academic Checklist
These are the key skills a child is expected to have mastered by the end of Year 4 in Reading, Writing, and Maths.
Age-Appropriate Life Skills Checklist
Fostering independence is a key part of development at this age. Here are some practical skills to encourage at home.
Your Parent Toolkit
Parental involvement is a powerful factor in a child’s success. This section provides practical, effective strategies to support your Year 4 child. The focus is on embedding learning into everyday life, not replicating the classroom. Click each topic to expand the advice.