Year 5 have had a wonderful start to the academic year! The children have settled into their new routines extremely well and have approached their learning with enthusiasm, curiosity and determination across the curriculum.

In Maths, we have been developing our understanding of place value before moving on to addition and subtraction. The children have demonstrated great resilience when tackling reasoning and problem-solving activities, applying their knowledge to a range of contexts and increasingly challenging questions.

In English, we started the term by reading There’s a Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom by Louis Sachar. The class have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the text, analysing the characters and considering their thoughts and feelings. As part of this work, the children have written diary entries from the viewpoints of key characters. We will soon be moving on to non-fiction writing, where the children will research, plan and create information reports about their own invented mythical creatures.

In Geography, our focus has been understanding our place in the wider world. We began by studying maps of our local area and identifying important landmarks and historical sites within Street, including Greenbank and Clark’s Headquarters. We then expanded our learning to the United Kingdom, locating the four countries, their capital cities and flags. More recently, we have explored Europe, learning about its countries, climates and national flags, helping us gain a broader understanding of our global location.

Our Science topic this term has been Properties of Materials. The children have carried out a variety of practical investigations to explore characteristics such as flammability, permeability, flexibility, hardness and magnetism. They have enjoyed using scientific vocabulary to discuss their findings and consider which materials are most suitable for different purposes. We are now building on this knowledge by learning about different methods of separating mixtures.

In Music, Year 5 have been learning and performing the classic rock song Livin’ on a Prayer. It has been fantastic to see their confidence grow as they revisit and apply important musical concepts, including pulse, rhythm, tempo and dynamics.

In Computing, we have been exploring systems and how technology works together to achieve a purpose. The children have identified examples of systems in everyday life, such as traffic lights, washing machines and parcel lockers. More recently, they have begun learning about computer networks and how devices communicate and share information.

In RE, we have been studying Sanatana Dharma and exploring how Sanatanis demonstrate commitment to their faith and beliefs. The children have learned about worship, pilgrimage to the River Ganges, and the significance of different gods and goddesses within the religion.

It has been a busy and productive term, and we are incredibly proud of the effort, creativity and positive attitude Year 5 have shown. We look forward to seeing all they achieve as the year continues!