The final part of our Autumn term has been a busy and festive one in Buzzard Class, with pupils continuing to engage with a wide range of National Curriculum learning alongside seasonal celebrations such as our carol concert, Secret Santa, Christmas lunch and a trip to the pantomime.

In mathematics, pupils continued to develop fluency and reasoning in line with the Upper Key Stage 2 National Curriculum for Number – Fractions. They focused on multiplying and dividing fractions and finding fractions of amounts, applying their understanding to problem-solving and real-life contexts. Pupils also began learning how to convert between different units of metric measure, supporting the curriculum aim of using mathematical knowledge to solve practical problems.

In English, pupils developed their writing skills in line with National Curriculum expectations by researching and writing biographies for different purposes and audiences. Inspired by our Little People, Big World advent calendar, each child chose an extraordinary individual and produced a well-structured biography, developing skills in research, note-taking, grammar, vocabulary and paragraphing.

Our Geography learning addressed key objectives within the National Curriculum for place knowledge, human and physical geography, and geographical skills. Pupils continued their study of the Alps and compared this region with our local area. They carried out fieldwork around the village, identifying leisure facilities and conducting interviews with local residents. Findings were presented through PowerPoint presentations and tourist brochures about the Alps, helping pupils to communicate geographical information effectively.

In Science, pupils continued learning about properties and changes of materials, focusing on mixtures, solutions and separation. Through practical investigations, including festive saltwater Christmas paintings, pupils observed evaporation in action, meeting the curriculum requirement to work scientifically through observation and explanation.

In Dance, pupils met the PE National Curriculum aim of performing dances using a range of movement patterns. They learnt a routine to Physical by Dua Lipa and worked collaboratively to choreograph group sections, developing coordination, rhythm and teamwork.

In Computing, pupils planned, filmed and edited their own videos, meeting National Curriculum objectives for digital literacy and information technology. They explored different filming techniques and learnt how to edit content effectively and safely.

In RE, pupils explored both versions of the Christmas story found in the Bible, comparing similarities and differences. This supported their understanding of Christian beliefs and encouraged thoughtful discussion and reflection.

In Music, pupils listened to and used Mozart’s Twinkle Variations to perform a group musical piece, meeting National Curriculum objectives for listening, performing and understanding music.

Our Art lessons focused on developing skills in collage, experimenting with layering and texture. Pupils applied these techniques to produce final biome collages, meeting curriculum aims to improve mastery of art and design techniques.

In PSHE, pupils focused on health and wellbeing, particularly the importance of sleep and strategies for dealing with failure. This supported pupils’ personal development and emotional resilience.

To end the term, pupils performed beautifully in the carol concert, enjoyed the pantomime, created sewn Christmas cards, celebrated with Christmas lunch and relaxed with a festive film afternoon after winning the Eco Art Project.

It has truly been a term full of hard work, creativity and festive fun – well done to everyone for such a fantastic end to the year!