Year 5/6

The Y5/6 Team this year are:

Miss Rose (Class Teacher/Assistant Headteacher)

Mrs Hartshorne (HLTA/TA)

Mrs Paterson (Teaching Assistant)

Mrs Gilby-Young (HLTA - PPA Cover)

Mrs Hawkins (Headteacher - Management Time Cover)

January Update

We have to start this newsletter with our 2026 highlight so far. Our Year 5 and 6 pupils had an unforgettable night at Young Voices. They showed incredible dedication, giving up their time after school to attend rehearsals and learn all the songs. Their hard work paid off in a fantastic performance, and every moment of the evening was enjoyed to the fullest. 

Back in school, in PE, Coach Josh has been helping us improve our hockey skills and dodgeball techniques. We have been building teamwork, confidence and sportsmanship, as well as our skills. 

In RE, we have been exploring challenging and important questions about reducing racism and the role religion can play in promoting understanding and respect. We also paused to reflect on why RE is important, helping us understand different beliefs, values, and perspectives and how these shape the way we live and interact with others. Pupils recorded their thoughts and reasons in the front of their RE books, connecting their learning to real-world issues. 

In science, we have been investigating materials. We compared and grouped materials based on their properties and carried out tests to explore their physical characteristics. Using our results, we discussed how certain materials are suited for specific everyday uses. Challenge your child at home: can they remember which material would be suitable for the wires in an electrical circuit and why? 

In history, we have been learning about the Industrial Revolution. So far, pupils have explored what it was, how it changed the shape of Britain, and what life was like for people working in factories. We also investigated what this looked like in our local area. Can your child explain what the Industrial Revolution was and recall the conditions people worked in at the factories? 

As part of our English Innovate sessions, pupils explored the question: should we install a graffiti wall in Cliffe Park? They learned about the history of graffiti and different styles, from stencil art and murals to tagging and throw-ups. Using this knowledge, they created balanced arguments, weighing the pros and cons, and presenting their own opinions clearly and confidently. 

We have also enjoyed two taster days. We had an exciting drama workshop with Drama Kids, where pupils explored characters, emotions, intonation and teamwork, discovering new ways to express themselves and bring stories to life. Likewise, our Judo taster day was a huge hit. Children learned new techniques, built confidence and challenged themselves in a fun and supportive environment. Some of our pupils were so inspired that they have already signed up for classes! 

In maths, we have been multiplying and dividing fractions and delving into decimals in preparation for converting between fractions, decimals, and percentages. 

Please continue to remind your child to complete their Doodle programmes each week. Homework is important as it helps consolidate learning, develop independent study skills and build confidence in applying knowledge.