Autumn Term 2026 

Maths
This term, our focus in Maths is on problem solving, ensuring that children have the skills and confidence to tackle challenging questions. We will put an emphasis on arithmetic and written calculations, practising strategies that are both quick and accurate. Applying these skills to a variety of problem-solving tasks will be central to our learning. A key part of this work is understanding how to interpret and deconstruct worded problems, enabling pupils to identify the underlying mathematics.

English
In English, we are continuing to develop a broad range of writing styles suitable for different genres and purposes. Using texts linked to our topics, World War 2 and Extreme Earth, we will create meaningful cross-curricular connections. Children will have opportunities to write independently across various forms, including fiction, explanatory texts, and instructions. We will also focus on spelling patterns, grammar, and punctuation, with particular attention to preparation for the grammar, punctuation, and spelling test next May.

Science
In Science, we will explore electricity, investigating which materials conduct and which do not. Children will engage in hands-on activities, building circuits using batteries, bulbs, switches, and buzzers. Pupils will learn the correct symbols for circuit diagrams and use these to design circuits, predict outcomes, and test their ideas. Later, we will study light, examining its behaviour and how it travels, including investigations with shadows and reflections using mirrors.

Topic
History: Our focus this term is the Second World War and its impact on people in the UK. We will study the causes of the war, the experiences of evacuees, rationing, and the Blitz, before examining the condition of Britain and Europe in its aftermath.
Geography: In Extreme Earth, we will explore extreme weather events, earthquakes, and volcanoes, starting with a study of the world map to understand their global distribution.

RE
This term, we are learning about the Buddhist religion, including the life of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) and why his teachings are important to Buddhists today. We will explore Buddhist beliefs and practices, such as worship, enlightenment, the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, karma, and rebirth. We will also discuss how Buddhist teachings encourage people to make good choices, think about right and wrong, and develop understanding and compassion for others. We will then learn about a range of inspirational people from different faiths, including the Dalai Lama, Bear Grylls, Malala Yousafzai, Jonathan Sacks and Fauja Singh. We will explore how their beliefs and faith have influenced their lives, helped them overcome challenges and inspired others. We will also reflect on our own beliefs and consider how they can help us face challenges and make positive choices.

PSHE
Our Personal, Social, and Health Education lessons will cover water safety, alcohol awareness, and legal issues surrounding theft. Pupils will learn practical strategies to stay safe, understand the effects of alcohol on the body, and explore the consequences of breaking the law.

Art
In Art, we will begin with sculpture, studying a range of works and exploring how artists express their ideas. The children will examine the work of Henry Moore and Giacometti, using Giacometti’s elongated figures as inspiration for their own creations. Later in the term, we will study the work of pop artist Andy Warhol.

PE
In Physical Education, children will develop teamwork and individual skills in football and tag rugby. Indoor PE will focus on fitness, exploring how exercise affects the body. Pupils will also have the opportunity to refine their netball skills, emphasising cooperation and teamwork.

DT
In Design and Technology, learning will link to our World War 2 topic with a focus on “Make Do and Mend.” Children will adapt a range of items, designing, creating, and evaluating their effectiveness.

Computing
We will begin with a refresher on e-safety before exploring computer systems and networks, focusing on how data travels around the world. The term will conclude with website design, covering copyright, page layout, and linking within a website.

Music
This term, Year 6 will explore “Music and the Sea.” Pupils will study how the key of a piece (major or minor) affects its emotional impact, compose music to represent sea stories, and perform traditional sea shanties using singing and keyboards. They will also listen to orchestral pieces that evoke the power of the ocean, considering the purpose of the music and its social and historical context.