Year 5

At Nightingale Primary School, our Year 5 curriculum is designed to deepen understanding, spark curiosity and develop independence. This term, our learning is inspired by the exciting and thought-provoking text George’s Secret Key to the Universe, linking science, writing and the wider curriculum through the theme of space and discovery.

In English, pupils will use George’s Secret Key to the Universe as a stimulus for a range of purposeful writing outcomes. Through discussion, modelling and structured talk, children will develop their writing through:

• Newspaper reports, focusing on clarity and factual accuracy

• Biographies, exploring the lives and achievements of significant individuals

There will be a continued focus on developing vocabulary, sentence structure and writing with greater precision and independence.

In Maths, pupils will strengthen their fluency and reasoning skills across key areas:

• Calculating area and perimeter

• Exploring volume and applying this to problem-solving contexts

Children will be encouraged to explain their thinking and apply their knowledge to increasingly complex problems.

In Science, pupils will explore:

• Earth and Space, developing an understanding of the solar system and how it works

• Earthquakes, investigating natural phenomena and how they impact the world

This learning encourages curiosity and helps children make connections between scientific ideas and real-world events.

In RE, pupils will deepen their understanding of Sikhism, focusing on:

• The importance of the Gurdwara

• The significance of the Guru Granth Sahib

Children will explore how beliefs and practices shape daily life and community.

Creativity continues to be an important part of learning in Year 5:

• Art and Design: Exploring pattern and creating abstract space-inspired artwork

• Music: Learning about chords and making choices in composition to create purposeful pieces

In Computing, pupils will apply their programming skills to a real purpose by:

• Designing and building a model to explore space

• Developing problem-solving skills through coding and digital creation

In PE, children will develop their skills through:

• Rounders, focusing on teamwork, strategy and coordination

• Exploring concepts linked to time and pace, supporting understanding of gameplay and performance

Through PSHE, pupils will focus on making choices, developing their ability to think critically, make informed decisions and understand consequences. This supports their growth as responsible and reflective individuals.

You can support your child’s learning by:

• Ensuring they read their Accelerated Reader book for at least 30 minutes every day

• Practising weekly spellings sent home

• Supporting regular completion of IXL homework

• Checking ClassDojo for updates, messages and reminders

Thank you for your continued support. We are looking forward to a fantastic term of learning in Year 5 and are excited to see the progress pupils will make across the curriculum.

Warmest regards,

The Year 5 Team

We’re looking forward to another term of deep thinking, bold creativity, and joyful learning. If you have any questions or would like to speak to us, please feel free to get in touch.