English lessons are based around rich and engaging texts covering a wide range of genres. Through the study of such genres, the children will gain an invaluable collection of skills to embed within their own writing. This foundation, alongside regular grammar, spelling and handwriting lessons, is the perfect combination to further enhance English skills and knowledge.
Reading in Year 5 is taught daily to focus on deepening their reading understanding. A range of stimuli will be used to engage the children to apply their reading skills, such as inference, deduction and justifying their answers or opinions.
Children are encouraged to read at home as often as possible, through their own choice of authors and genres from our extensive library, which increases their vocabulary and spelling skills to add to the valuable work that we carry out in class. All children in Key Stage 2 read for 20 minutes a day and have the opportunity to quiz on their book and change their book based on their achieved level.
Our maths scheme, ‘White Rose Maths Scheme’ is a real hands-on approach to maths, with children using practical equipment to represent, replicate and solve problems. With a variety of different stages to the lessons, the children are able to develop a wide range of skills, including the ability to achieve a greater understanding of maths.
In Year 5, our science curriculum offers pupils a rich and varied programme designed to deepen understanding and strengthen skills across five key topics including: Animals, Humans, Forces, Earth and Space, Properties of Materials and Living Things and their Habitats. Throughout these units, children build securely on prior knowledge while preparing for more complex concepts in Year 6. They begin by exploring classification through keys and graphs, learning how scientists organise information and present data accurately. In 'Forces', pupils develop pattern‑seeking skills as they investigate friction, air resistance and water resistance, discovering how these forces act and interact in everyday contexts. Our 'Earth and Space' unit invites pupils to classify celestial bodies, understand the phases of the Moon and revisit their earlier learning about Greek astronomy to evaluate scientific ideas. When studying 'Materials', pupils extend their Year 4 knowledge of states of matter by exploring solubility, evaporation and separation techniques, applying these ideas to real‑world innovations such as the work of Spencer Silver. Finally, in 'Living Things and their Habitats', pupils refine their understanding of life processes, classify organisms, investigate local habitats and consider environmental change. Together, these units nurture curiosity, scientific reasoning and a strong foundation for future learning.
In Year 5, our Topic curriculum brings together an engaging blend of history and geography designed to deepen pupils’ understanding of the world, past and present. Through their study of 'The Ancient Greeks', children learn about key developments in Greek civilisation and explore its lasting legacy, recognising how ancient ideas continue to shape modern society. 'The Tudors' unit then introduces pupils to the lives and experiences of people from Henry VII to Mary I, helping them understand how political change influenced everyday life. Our 'Local History' project allows pupils to connect personally with the past, investigating their immediate area and recognising how their community fits into the wider historical narrative.
In geography, pupils explore the world’s major biomes through 'Brilliant Biomes', comparing climates and environmental features across global regions. The ‘Grown or Flown?’ unit develops pupils’ understanding of agricultural land use and significant environmental areas, encouraging them to consider how food production varies worldwide. Finally, a sustainability‑focused fieldwork unit introduces renewable and non‑renewable resources, prompting pupils to reflect on environmental impact and responsible choices. Together, these Topic studies nurture curiosity whilst broadening their knowledge of the world.
In Year 5 Art, pupils develop a broad range of creative skills through three engaging topics: 'Going Greek', 'Lines, Light and Shade' and 'Our Local Landscape'. Drawing on Greek mythology, pupils design pots, plates and mixed‑media representations of Greek gods and goddesses, exploring depth, texture and artistic symbolism. They then work in the style of Picasso, creating continuous line drawings while investigating how light, shade and perspective bring artworks to life. Finally, pupils study local landscapes, using sketching techniques to inspire their own painted scenes. Throughout these units, children build confidence in drawing, sketching, painting and analysing artistic style.
In Year 5 Design and Technology, pupils develop practical skills and problem‑solving through three engaging projects: 'Dart Frogs', 'Come Dine With Me' and 'Wind Turbines'. In the Dart Frogs unit, children explore how pneumatics work in everyday life before designing and making their own dart frog with a moving mouth powered by a simple pneumatic system. During Come Dine With Me, pupils plan, prepare and evaluate a three‑course meal, analysing ingredients and adapting recipes to suit their tastes. Finally, in Wind Turbines, pupils investigate sustainable energy, designing and constructing their own working turbine using mechanical structures.
In Year 5 MFL, pupils build their confidence in French through a rich sequence of themed units that develop vocabulary, communication and cultural understanding. They begin with core language such as greetings, feelings, numbers and colours, before applying this knowledge to school life, friends and personal information. Over the year, pupils explore topics including celebrations, towns and directions, homes, animals and family, alongside practical language for markets, cafés and shops. They also learn to describe clothing, sports, daily routines and weather. Story‑based units, role‑play and creative tasks—such as designing aliens, planets and picnics—help pupils use French in meaningful, engaging contexts while steadily broadening their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
In Year 5 Music, pupils explore a wide range of musical styles through six engaging units: 'Livin’ On a Prayer', 'Classroom Jazz 1', 'Make You Feel My Love', 'Fresh Prince of Bel‑Air', 'Dancing in the Street' and 'Reflect, Rewind and Replay'. Each unit centres on a key song, using an integrated approach that links singing, instrumental work, improvisation, composition and listening skills. Children develop their understanding of pulse, rhythm and pitch while exploring genres including rock, jazz, pop ballads, hip hop, Motown and classical music. Throughout the year, they appraise well‑known pieces, create their own musical ideas and confidently perform and share their learning.
In Year 5 Computing, pupils build a strong foundation in digital literacy, coding and online safety. They learn how to stay safe online, manage secure passwords and understand the impact of sharing digital content. In coding, pupils design algorithms, use variables, create simulations and develop playable games using 2Code. They also explore spreadsheets to test hypotheses and model real‑life situations, before learning to search, create and organise information in databases. Finally, pupils design and evaluate their own 3D computer games, developing creativity and computational thinking.
In Year 5 PSHE, pupils explore six key themes: 'Being Me in My World', 'Celebrating Differences', 'Dreams and Goals', 'Healthy Me', 'Relationships' and 'Changing Me'. Throughout the year, children reflect on their roles within the school and wider community, learn about cultural diversity and racism, and consider aspirations for the future. They also explore healthy lifestyles, online safety, self‑esteem and positive relationships. Finally, pupils learn about puberty, growing responsibility and managing change, helping them develop confidence, empathy and emotional awareness.
In Year 5 RE, pupils explore a diverse range of religions and worldviews, deepening their understanding of belief, authority and commitment. They learn why the Torah is central to Jewish life, what it means to be a Muslim in Britain today and how Christians understand God as both holy and loving. Pupils then examine Sanatana Dharma through practices such as puja and pilgrimage, before comparing Humanist and Christian ideas about living a good life. Finally, they explore Buddhist beliefs, including the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, considering how Buddhists show commitment to their faith.