Autumn 1 Update

What a busy and exciting start to the year it has been! The children have settled brilliantly into Year 5 and have shown fantastic enthusiasm across all subjects. Here’s a look at what we’ve been learning this half term.

Maths

This term, we explored a wide range of mathematical concepts, starting with place value—understanding numbers up to one million and using this knowledge to compare and round numbers.

We then moved on to addition and subtraction, focusing on using written methods accurately and applying them to multi-step problems.

In multiplication, pupils practised efficient written methods and explored prime numbers, square numbers, cube numbers, factors, and multiples. They particularly enjoyed spotting number patterns and tackling reasoning challenges that really made them think!

Writing

In English, we’ve been developing our creative and non-fiction writing skills through a variety of genres:

Narrative – Setting Description:

We began by learning how to create vivid settings using expanded noun phrases, varied openers, and figurative language such as similes and metaphors. The children used rich vocabulary to bring their settings to life—some even transported us to magical forests and stormy seas!

Persuasive Letters:

Next, we became persuasive writers, using modal verbs, emotive language, rhetorical questions, the rule of three, and a touch of exaggeration to convince our readers. We also focused on writing more sophisticated compound and complex sentences to make our arguments powerful and engaging.

Non-Chronological Report on Mo Farah:

To end the term, we researched and wrote detailed reports about Mo Farah. Pupils practised their research skills, organised their writing into clear paragraphs, and used technical vocabulary, fronted adverbials, and accurate verb tenses. It was wonderful to see them combine their knowledge of grammar with their curiosity about a real-life sporting hero.

Guided Reading

Our guided reading sessions have been focused on Roald Dahl’s classic, Matilda. The children have enjoyed exploring Matilda’s cleverness, bravery, and love of books while developing key reading skills such as retrieval, inference, and vocabulary understanding. The story sparked some brilliant discussions about fairness, resilience, and standing up for what’s right.

PBL: We Are Heritage Hunters

In PBL, the children became young historians and geographers, investigating how our local area has changed over time. They used maps and photographs to explore local heritage and understand how people, buildings, and landscapes evolve. 

Black History Month

We also celebrated Black History Month, where we learned about influential figures who have shaped history and culture. Our focus was on Mo Farah, and the children worked to create a fantastic showcase celebrating his achievements and perseverance. It was a wonderful celebration of diversity, resilience, and inspiration!

What a brilliant start to the school year! The children should be incredibly proud of their hard work and enthusiasm throughout Autumn 1. We can’t wait to see what next half term brings!