In design technology, this halfterm, Year 6 have been designing and making models of playground equipment. First, we discussed what makes the perfect playground and considered the materials and designs that went into the structures involved. After this, we moved on to design structures and play apparatus that we would love to use ourselves.

This week, we began to make prototype models using a range of materials and equipment. We used saws to cut dowel, and hot glue guns to combine the different materials we used. Our models are looking fabulous so far and we are eager to enhance and refine them next week! 

This week, Willow and Whitebeam also embarked on an enchanting day trip, beginning with a scenic train journey to the historic city of Cambridge. Upon arrival, they strolled through the charming streets, eventually arriving at a park where they enjoyed a lovely picnic in the sun. Rejuvenated and brimming with excitement, they then made their way to the Fitzwilliam Museum, where the children were engrossed by the captivating exhibits, marveling at the intricate artistry and relics from distant eras. Their curiosity ignited, they wandered through galleries filled with masterpieces, each artefact telling a story that sparked lively discussions and inspired awe. All children were impeccably behaved and the teachers were very impressed!

Walnut Class had the pleasure to visit Cambridge. We had an exciting train journey to the city. After finding a delightful park, we had lunch and a kick around under the glorious sun before heading to the Fitzwilliam Museum. Here we were amazed by ancient armour, perfect porcelain and amazing artwork. It was a fantastic day and everyone had a great time!  

Last week, our Year 6 pupils had the exciting opportunity to visit the Lamex Stadium to take part in Crucial Crew: a multi-agency safety event designed especially for 10-11 year olds. This important event aims to equip children with essential life skills that will help them stay safe and look out for others as they grow older. Throughout the day, the children rotated through a series of interactive workshops run by professionals from various emergency services and safety organisations. They learned how to identify fire risks in the home, discussed what to do in an emergency and even took part in hands-on CPR. These sessions were both fun and informative and all children were really well engaged. 

We’re officially halfway through SATs week, and what a journey it’s been so far! Year 6 students have been putting in an extraordinary amount of effort, determination, and focus to tackle their SATs papers. After days of sitting tests and pushing themselves to do their best, the students are now gearing up for their final papers. But before they dive into the last stretch, they’ve been given a fun, creative revision task to help them power through: Graffiti Revision! The teachers have written an array of maths problems on the tables and the children have one task: solve them all!

There’s something wonderful about getting lost in a good book — and this afternoon, Year 6 discovered just how enjoyable it can be when reading meets nature. With the sun shining, Whitebeam swapped desks for the great outdoors and took their reading time outside. For 20 peaceful minutes, the children lay sprawled across the grass and leaned comfortably against tree trunks and found that it only takes a short amount of time to become totally engrossed in a story.

It was more than just a change of scenery; it was an experience in reading for pleasure. We believe that reading should be enjoyable and inspiring — not just something we have to do, but something we want to do. This little change in environment reminded us that a good book can take you anywhere — even further than the school field!

Miss Shields was so proud of how enthusiastically Year 6 embraced the moment and is already planning more outdoor reading sessions.

Since coming back from Easter, Year 6 have been working incredibly hard, focusing on their revision in preparation for the upcoming assessments. It's been a busy few weeks of studying, but today, we found a well-deserved break. We took some time to sit quietly, read our books in the peaceful silence, and soak up the warm weather. It was a refreshing pause from all the hard work, allowing everyone to recharge and enjoy a moment of calm before diving back into our studies.

Yesterday, a group of enthusiastic Year 6 children came into school for a fun and focused activity morning designed to get their brains buzzing and ready for the term ahead. This session was packed with engaging revision games that made learning feel like play, helping to reinforce key skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. One of the highlights was a big mathematical treasure hunt, where pupils worked in teams to solve a series of number-based clues and challenges. It was a brilliant blend of fun, teamwork, and learning – and a fantastic way to keep minds sharp over the holidays! The children are ready for another fun filled morning today where they will be working in their own pizza store!

We have been delving into the fascinating connections between census data and the women's suffrage movement. The students learned how women, in their fight for the right to vote, used creative forms of protest—one of the most significant being the boycott of the 1911 census. Many suffragists refused to participate in the census as a statement against their lack of political representation. This act of defiance showed the power of collective action and highlighted the struggle for equality. To bring this history to life, the students created their own detailed timelines of the women’s suffrage movement. They included key events such as the formation of suffrage organisations, important protests, and significant legal milestones, like the 1918 Representation of the People Act. Alongside these historical events, the children incorporated their own research and insights.

The children are looking forward to telling you all about their learning and said they can't wait until the next census to see their learning in real life!

Last Friday, the children got involved in Red Nose Day by donating to support the incredible work of Comic Relief. Many brought in jokes to share, spreading joy and smiles in the classroom. They all expressed their creativity through acrostic poems, celebrating kindness and the power of helping others. These poems highlighted the importance of supporting one another and the positive change that Comic Relief brings to communities worldwide. It’s a beautiful reminder that even the smallest actions, like sharing a laugh or writing a thoughtful poem, can create a ripple of kindness, making the world a better place for all.