Dear parents and carers,

This week in Maths, we have started our new topic on multiplication. We began practically, using blocks, counters and a range of other resources to show what multiplication looks like. It can be a tricky concept to fully understand at first, but Year 5 are a resilient bunch and are persevering brilliantly as their confidence grows.

In English, we started our new book and began discussing slavery in America in the 1800s. It has been an eye-opening topic for the students, helping them to understand what life was like for enslaved people at that time. The class has approached these important discussions with maturity and thoughtfulness.

In History, we explored the British Empire and discovered why people once said “the sun never set” on it. We had some fascinating conversations about how such a small island nation came to control a quarter of the world’s land, and what this meant for different countries and cultures.

In PE this week, we have Chance to Shine cricket on Monday and, as a special treat, Rippa Rugby on Friday. On Friday, please ensure your child comes to school in clothes suitable for exercise that can also get muddy.

In art we have started our new unit on optical art. Today we learnt about the British artist Bridgit Riley and had a go at drawing an optical illusion piece of artwork. 

Another busy and thoughtful week of learning — well done, Year 5!