Reception have returned from their half term break, ready and raring to go. To support transition to year 1, we will be looking at transition/journey stories in literacy. This week we read Mr Gumpy's Outing and the children thoroughly enjoyed creating their own picnics and writing invitations for new characters to join them on a journey. Linking with this, the children participated in an experiment on floating and sinking. As a class, we predicted which items would float and which would sink, before conducting the experiment. The children did a good job with their predictions.

This week in Science, Year 1 have been exploring the fascinating world of plants! As part of our unit, we sorted a variety of bulbs and seeds and discussed how we can classify them based on their colour, size, and type. The children really enjoyed comparing the different features and using their observation skills like real scientists!

Year 2 has embarked on the final half-term of the academic year with an exciting new English topic: Why Wolves Are Dangerous. To introduce the unit, the children created impressive wolf masks, which are proudly displayed on our classroom wall.  In History, we explored the story of William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings—the pivotal event depicted in the famous Bayeux Tapestry. The tapestry was divided into small sections, and pupils worked collaboratively in small groups to reconstruct it in chronological order. They demonstrated excellent teamwork and completed the task to a high standard.

This week, Year 3 explored the atlas to locate countries and cities across Europe. They learned how to use an atlas effectively and identified the capital cities of various European nations. 

Year 4 has had a great start to the last half term. In Maths, we’ve continued learning about decimals, focusing on comparing and ordering them. In English, the children have been writing persuasively, using strong language and rhetorical questions to make their arguments convincing. In Science, we investigated which materials are best at muffling sound. The children tested different materials, created bar graphs, and drew conclusions based on their results.

This week in Year 5 the children have begun a new unit on Buddhism in RE. The learning focus this week was introducing the topic of Dharma Day. This is a celebration of the first sermon of the Buddha. The children completed an activity that focussed on the Buddhist flag, investigating what each colour represents.  

This week, Year 6 explored the world of graffiti art, drawing inspiration from Banksy’s iconic piece Love Is in the Air. The class engaged in a thoughtful discussion about the ongoing debate surrounding graffiti—whether it’s an act of vandalism or a form of artistic expression. They also considered why some graffiti artists might feel frustrated by the widespread attention Banksy receives. To finish, students had a go at creating their own artwork using pens and pencils showcasing their own creative interpretations.

We enjoyed focusing on the content of upcoming teaching content for this term: we looked at resources for Empathy Day and reviewed our RSE provision prior to sending the information out to parents.

At lunchtime today, adult learners from West Herts College set up their stall in the school foyer to sell a range of items. The children were impressed by the hand-made items and there was a buzz at lunchtime as children explored what was on offer.

It was great to be able to support the local community and our neighbours.