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Autumn 1

What a fantastic and action-packed start to the school year we have had! From exciting new learning in the classroom to residential adventures and sporting success, the children have thrown themselves into every opportunity with enthusiasm, resilience and excellent behaviour.

In English, we explored The Boy Who Biked the World by Alastair Humphreys. Using the text as inspiration, we wrote diary entries, explanation texts about surviving in desert conditions and vivid descriptive setting pieces.

In Maths, we developed our understanding of place value, addition, subtraction and multiplication, building strong foundations for the year ahead.

 

Our Science topic focused on Living Things and Their Habitats, where pupils learned how organisms are classified using the Linnaean system. They investigated vertebrates, invertebrates, plants and microorganisms, used classification keys and even created their own keys to sort living things.

In Geography, we investigated the question "Why does population change?". We explored global population distribution, birth and death rates, migration and the impact of climate change. The children also carried out fieldwork, collecting and analysing data before presenting their findings and suggestions in a written report.

In PE, pupils developed their teamwork and game skills through Tag Rugby, focusing on attacking, defending, passing, movement and competition. Meanwhile, in Art, we explored wire sculpture, taking inspiration from the work of Alexander Calder and learning how to bend, twist, join and shape wire to create striking 3D artworks.

Our Computing learning centred on Computer Systems and Networks, with a focus on communication and collaboration. In Music, we enjoyed learning about sea shanties, composing body percussion accompaniments, singing expressively and keeping the beat through rhythm games and instrumental performances.

In RE, we explored the question "What do Hindus believe about Dharma, Deity and Atman?", developing our understanding of Hindu beliefs, practices and identity. In PSHE, we focused on My Healthy Self, learning how nutrition, physical activity and emotional regulation can support both physical and mental wellbeing.

One of the highlights of the term was our incredible three-day residential visit to Osmington Bay. Children challenged themselves with activities including the Vertical Challenge, climbing, archery tag, giant swing, rifle shooting, orienteering, dragon boating and a silent disco that certainly wasn't silent! The children demonstrated outstanding teamwork, resilience and courage, and received many positive comments from instructors about their excellent manners and behaviour.

 

Back in school, we celebrated the 10th anniversary of the micro:bit by taking part in a live coding event. We also enjoyed sporting success, with Year 6 competing brilliantly in the Small Schools Football Qualifiers and a further 19 pupils representing the school at another football tournament.

To round off a wonderful half-term, Year 6 attended the Cheltenham Literature Festival, where they listened to author Helen Rutter speak about her books and had the opportunity to purchase signed copies.

We are incredibly proud of all the children's hard work and achievements this half-term and look forward to another exciting term ahead!