This week 5J learnt all about the pyramids built by the Ancient Egyptians. We discovered why, where and how they were built, asking Miss Jackson lots of questions along the way and looking up what we weren’t sure about. Links were made to our historical enquiry question ‘What were the key achievements of this time?’ and then using our creative abilities, we then produced amazing 3D fact files. What an inspiring and interesting afternoon!

In our science lesson, we explored plants by carefully observing tulips. We studied their shape, colour, and structure before dissecting them to get a closer look at the different parts of the plant. We identified and discussed the petals, stem, stamens, anthers, filaments, and pistil, learning about the important role each part plays. Using our observations, we then created detailed botanical drawings, carefully drawing and labelling each part accurately, just like real scientists.

As part of our Lent preparations, children at ACE were asked to come up with a community activity. 5J decided to create gratitude and positive mantra book marks to hide in our wonderful library. Whoever finds them over the next term will be able to keep them! I wonder who the lucky children will be?

As part of our ‘Earth and Beyond’ topic, we have been exploring pastels and how these can be applied to cosmic art! We first practised pastel techniques in our sketch books (a really important process) before taking time to consider scale and composition for our final pieces. 5J had a creative and skill-filled afternoon!

As we wrapped up our Macbeth topic, we published letters written from the point of view of our characters in our performance. To add to the excitement, we had a secret mission to write and deliver our letters without being detected. We also looked at some 17th century letter folding techniques to ensure our messages were kept private. 5J did some outstanding writing, showcasing that immersive experiences really do pay off.

5J had their moment on stage this week where they participated in The Shakespeare Schools Theatre Festival. They wowed the audience with their professionalism, style and stage presence. I could talk all day about how amazing they were but instead I’ll let the 5 star reviews do the talking! Congratulations team!

This term we have been learning all about different views on creation from Genesis to the Big Bang. This week’s lesson prompted lots of deep thinking and discussion about whether or not different beliefs can co-exist. 5J brought this thinking together in a wonderful piece of work where they documented their ‘I Wonder’ thoughts. They were then also able to make connections between these different ideas.

We have had a busy but wonderful few weeks of the new term in 5J. Every year our Year classes take part in the Coram Shakespeare Schools Festival. We have one half-term to learn, create and finesse a Shakespare play- in our case ‘Macbeth’.

The children have worked hard to understand and embody ‘ensemble theatre’, learn lines and get to grips with the theatrical process of putting together a performance ready show. We still have work ahead of us of course but if what they have so far is anything to go by, the show will be a roaring success! Shout out to Miss Jackson’s dad and Ethan’s Grandma for helping to make the props!

It has been quite the exciting morning in year 5 today. We were lucky enough to join an online assembly with the record breaking explorer Robert Swan. This wasn’t your average assembly- this was being broadcast from the Antarctic! We had the opportunity to see their camp and learn all about Robert’s mission to protect this amazing continent. Feeling quite inspired, our Eco club representative was eager to pass on some ideas at his next meeting and some children even decided to change their plans for their biography to write about Robert!

This week made the journey to Adel Woods and whilst it may not be in the Arctic like our inspiration, Ernest Shackleton, there was definitely a chill in the air. We made sure to wrap up warm and head out to get den building.

The children collaborated in their teams to consider the purpose of their shelters and how they might apply knowledge (such as triangulation) to support their structure. I think you’ll agree that they did a fantastic job!