Year Five and Six Highlights

This week, Year 5 celebrated Black History Month with a special focus on the influential author Malorie Blackman. The children explored her incredible contributions to literature, particularly her trailblazing work in young adult fiction. We discussed the challenges she faced as a Black woman in the publishing industry, and how she overcame them to become a celebrated writer. The children were especially excited to learn that next term’s Talk 4 Writing will feature her story ‘Robot Girl’, which they'll dive deeper into. In addition to Blackman, the class also learned about other remarkable figures in Black history, drawing inspiration from their achievements and resilience. These lessons not only highlighted the importance of diversity in literature and history, but also encouraged the children to think critically about overcoming obstacles and striving for excellence in their own lives.

This week, Year 6 had a fascinating trip to Hampton Court Palace to immerse themselves in the grandeur of Tudor England. The children explored the lavish Tudor apartments where King Henry VIII once lived, learning about royal life, including how the monarchs showcased their wealth and power in the opulent court. A highlight for many was the spine-chilling ghost story of Katherine Parr, the "Screaming Woman," adding a touch of mystery to their historical journey. The children also explored the bustling kitchens, imagining the palace workers preparing grand feasts for the king and his court. To finish the day, the children took on the famous Hampton Court hedge maze. While some found themselves lost in the winding paths, others navigated expertly, completing the maze in record time, making for a fun and memorable end to their Tudor adventure.