In Mathematics, we consolidated our understanding of negative numbers and measurement before applying our learning through increasingly challenging reasoning and problem-solving activities, in line with the Key Stage 2 National Curriculum. To finish the term, we took part in the White Rose Taskmaster Project, where teamwork, resilience and mathematical thinking were put to the test. Children tackled a range of creative challenges, including designing a marble run that lasted exactly 20 seconds, creating a shape with a perimeter of 10 metres and producing intricate mathematical patterns. These practical tasks encouraged pupils to reason, communicate their ideas and apply their mathematical understanding in new and exciting ways.

Our English lessons centred around the beautiful book The Lost Words by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris. Inspired by the text, pupils wrote thoughtful balanced arguments exploring whether humans do enough to care for nature, as well as creating their own descriptive poetry. They also developed their research and non-fiction writing skills by producing non-chronological reports about birds they identified around the school grounds using the Merlin Bird ID app. This work supported National Curriculum objectives for writing across a range of genres, using ambitious vocabulary, precise grammar and writing for different audiences and purposes.

Our English learning linked perfectly with Art, where we explored the question, "What is composition?" Children carefully sketched and painted the birds they had observed before considering how artists use composition to create impact. They then ventured outside to photograph natural scenes, thoughtfully composing images that demonstrated balance, focus and perspective.

 

In Science, pupils investigated Animals Including Humans: Circulation and Health. They learned about the structure and function of the circulatory system, the important role of blood and the factors that influence healthy lifestyles. Through practical investigations, data analysis and evaluating scientific models, children explored relationships between animal size and heart rate while developing their ability to interpret evidence and think scientifically.

Our Geography topic, Where Does Our Energy Come From?, encouraged pupils to think critically about the world's energy needs. They investigated renewable and non-renewable energy sources, explored how electricity is generated in the United States and considered the advantages and disadvantages of different methods of energy production. As geographers, they collected and presented data to identify the most suitable location for solar panels around our school grounds, justifying their decisions using geographical evidence.

In Physical Education, children continued to develop their confidence and competence in swimming, refining each of the four strokes while also learning vital water safety skills, including how to stay safe around water and the importance of making sensible decisions in different environments.

During Computing, pupils explored Programming B: Selection in Quizzes, learning how computer programs use conditional statements to make decisions. They designed and created their own interactive quizzes, developing their understanding of algorithms, programming and debugging while applying computational thinking.

Our PSHE lessons focused on Economic Wellbeing, where pupils learnt about borrowing money responsibly, income and expenditure, budgeting and making informed financial choices. They explored the importance of prioritising needs over wants and discussed some of the risks associated with managing money, helping prepare them for future financial responsibility.

In Religious Education, we continued our learning about Islam. A particular highlight was receiving thoughtful replies to the questions we had written about Ramadan, helping deepen our understanding of Islamic beliefs and practices through real-life experiences and discussion.

Our Year 6 French pupils amazed us by performing The Three Little Pigs entirely in French. It was a wonderful celebration of all the language knowledge they have built throughout their primary school journey and demonstrated impressive confidence, pronunciation and fluency.

Beyond the classroom, there were countless opportunities to shine. Year 6 pupils worked incredibly hard to organise another fantastic Chewton's Got Talent, entertaining the whole school with an excellent variety of performances. Many of our Year 5 pupils represented the school brilliantly at rounders and cricket tournaments, showing excellent teamwork, determination and sportsmanship. We were especially proud that our cricket team qualified for the Small Schools County Dynamos Cricket Finals. Although the event was sadly cancelled due to the extreme heat, reaching the finals was a tremendous achievement.

One of the highlights of the term was our whole Key Stage 2 production of Wiz, Wham, Alakazam! The Year 5 children made wonderful wizards, while the Year 6 pupils impressed audiences with their confident narration. The performances showcased not only acting and singing talents but also teamwork, commitment and confidence.

To round off the year, we enjoyed an unforgettable visit to the Houses of Parliament in London. During our visit, we toured both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, took part in an engaging workshop about how laws are made and enjoyed a fascinating question-and-answer session with our local MP. Travelling by train and walking through the busy streets of London made the experience even more memorable and helped bring our learning about British democracy to life.

Finally, we gathered together for our Year 6 Leavers' Service, reflecting on the wonderful memories made throughout primary school and celebrating everything our Year 6 pupils have achieved. It was a fitting opportunity to wish them every success as they begin their exciting next chapter.

This term has beautifully reflected the aims of the Key Stage 2 National Curriculum, enabling children to develop academically, creatively and personally. Through rich learning experiences, practical investigations, performances, sporting events and educational visits, our pupils have continued to grow into confident, resilient and thoughtful learners. We are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved this year and wish our Year 6 pupils the very best as they move on to secondary school.