Blwyddyn 5

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Croeso i Blwyddyn 5!

Welcome to Year 5! This is an exciting and important year as we begin preparing ourselves for the responsibilities and opportunities that come in Year 6. Throughout the year, we develop our confidence, independence and leadership skills while continuing to grow as learners.

Year 5 pupils have the chance to take on special roles within the school. We learn from Year 6 about how to become playground buddies, helping to support younger children during break times. Some pupils are also selected to become Bronze Ambassadors representing the school and promoting positive attitudes towards sport and teamwork.

This year also brings some memorable experiences. We go on our first residential trip, which helps us build independence, teamwork and resilience. At times we work closely with Year 6 on rich learning tasks, giving us a taste of the challenges and expectations of the following year.

Year 5 pupils also play an important role in the wider school community by helping to organise whole-school fundraising events such as the Dementia Memory Walk and the Macmillan Coffee Morning. These experiences help us develop responsibility, teamwork and a sense of community as we prepare for the exciting step into Year 6.

Class Teacher – Mrs Purnell
Learning Support Assistant -Mrs Driscoll

Year 5 Class routine

We aim to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment where pupils can develop independence and confidence.

Reading:
Children should bring their book bags and reading books into school each day. We encourage regular reading at home to support progress and enjoyment of books.

Equipment:
Pupils are welcome to bring their own pencil cases; however, all essential writing materials will be provided in class.

Snacks and Drinks:
Please ensure your child brings a named water bottle each day. Children may bring a healthy snack for playtime.

Home Learning:
Weekly spellings will be set on Google Classroom for children to practise at home. Pupils can also access Times Tables Rock Stars and Mathletics from home to support their maths learning.

Physical Education (PE):
PE sessions take place during the week (please check with your child’s class teacher for specific days). Children should come prepared with a PE kit, including suitable footwear. Where possible, PE lessons will take place outdoors.

Outdoor Learning:
Children may spend time learning or playing outside, so appropriate footwear (such as trainers) and a coat are recommended, depending on the weather.

Topic of the Term

Year 5 Topic for This Half Term: Castles in Wales

This half term, Year 5 will be exploring the fascinating topic of Castles in Wales. We will investigate the historical reasons behind the building of so many castles and learn about the important role they played in protecting land, controlling territories, and shaping Welsh history.

As part of our learning, we will explore the geographical locations of castles across Wales and examine the features that made them effective defensive structures. We will also take a closer look at the castles in and around the Brecon area, considering how their positions in the landscape helped to keep people safe and defend against attack.

In Science and Technology, pupils will investigate medieval siege warfare by learning about catapults and trebuchets. They will explore how these machines worked and consider the scientific principles behind their design and operation.

In Expressive Arts, children will use clay to create their own models of a motte and bailey castle, developing their creativity while gaining a deeper understanding of the structure and layout of early castles.

This engaging topic will provide opportunities for pupils to develop their historical knowledge, scientific enquiry skills, geographical understanding, and artistic creativity while bringing the world of medieval Wales to life.