I saw a list of words my child need to know how to spell before she starts Primary 1. She can't spell most of those and to make matters worse many other mummies say that by K2 kids should be writing paragraphs. I'm worried my child will struggle to keep up.

I reckon you shouldn't compare your kid's capabilities too much with other kids. Different children have different speeds of learning. This list you mentioned -- what is the source? Is it MOE sanctioned? Sometimes I feel parents stress themselves out too much when they listen to other parents and in turn, stress their kids out unknowingly. Help your child practice his or her spelling everyday by not only using traditional methods but also fun ways too. Here's some creative ways to practise spelling: http://teachmama.com/fun-ways-to-learn-spelling-words/