Welcome to Autumn 2!
We hope everyone had a fun and safe half-term! It has been lovely to welcome the children back, and we’ve already been enjoying the autumn season, from spooky Halloween stories to the bright fireworks of Bonfire Night. This term promises to be full of exciting learning opportunities, challenges, and achievements. This page will give you an overview of what your child will be learning across different subjects so you can share in their learning journey.

English
In Year 5, children are exploring poetry, focusing on The Highwayman, developing their understanding of figurative language, rhythm, and narrative structure. Year 6 are reading the novel Private Peaceful, enhancing their comprehension skills, character analysis, and discussion of themes and authorial choices. Across both year groups, children continue to practise planning, drafting, and editing their writing, while focusing on rich vocabulary, varied sentence structures, and accurate punctuation.

Mathematics
Year 5 are deepening their understanding of multiplication and division, while Year 6 are beginning to explore fractions. Lessons will continue to build fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills, reinforcing the key number concepts that underpin future learning. Times tables recall remains a key focus for both year groups.

Science – Evolution and Inheritance
We will explore how living things have changed over time, looking at inheritance, adaptation, and the work of key scientists such as Charles Darwin. Children will develop their understanding of how traits are passed down through generations and how species evolve to survive in their environments.

History – The Maya Civilisation
This term, we will journey back to explore the fascinating Maya civilisation. Children will investigate their culture, architecture, society, and achievements, considering how the Maya influenced the world and comparing their way of life to our own.

PE
PE this term includes:

• Dance with Mr Glenn (Birch on Thursdays) – developing creativity, rhythm, and performance skills.

• Swimming with Mrs Londesborough (Oak on Fridays) – focusing on stroke technique, water confidence, and control.

• Netball (Oak on Mondays and Birch on Tuesdays) – exploring teamwork, tactics, and competitive skills through invasion games.

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Music
Birch class are enjoying singing with Mrs Davies, developing vocal skills and musical expression. Oak class will be exploring the song Happy by Pharrell, focusing on rhythm, pitch, and performance.

Art – Edward Hopper
In art, children will study the work of Edward Hopper, exploring light, perspective, and mood in painting. They will create their own artworks inspired by his style.

Computing – Introduction to Python
Children will begin coding with Python, learning basic programming concepts and problem-solving skills as they create their own simple programs.

PSHE – Stealing
In PSHE, we will discuss the theme of stealing, exploring the reasons behind it and the consequences. This will help children make thoughtful and responsible choices in their daily lives.

RE – Expression of Belief
We continue to explore the question: Is it better to express your beliefs through art and architecture or charity and generosity? Children will consider different perspectives and reflect on their own ideas.

French – Phonics
French lessons continue to focus on phonics, helping children improve pronunciation and build confidence in speaking the language.

✨ We are looking forward to a term full of curiosity, creativity, and achievement. Thank you for your continued support as the children grow, learn, and prepare for the next step in their journey.

Mr Hannaford, Mrs Foulkes, Mrs Londesborough, Mrs Caddick, and Mrs Parry
(Team 5/6)