Year 5 - Panthers & Tigers

English

This half term, our English learning will be inspired by The Adventures of Odysseus. Through this exciting story, we will explore Ancient Greece and themes of family, heroism, adventure—and even a little danger thrown in for good measure! The children will learn how to write engaging letters and diary entries, while exploring how authors use devices such as metaphors, similes and personification to create vivid images in the reader’s mind. We will also continue to develop spelling and presentation skills through weekly Spelling Shed activities and handwriting lessons.

Maths

This half term, our Maths learning will revisit the key areas of place value, multiplication, division, addition and subtraction. The children will consolidate their existing knowledge before building upon these essential mathematical skills and applying them to increasingly challenging problems. Our learning will be supported by weekly CLIC tests, which help to develop confidence and fluency with number facts. Regular TT Rock Stars practice at home will also be important in strengthening the children’s rapid recall of multiplication and division facts.

History / Topic

In History, we will be using the Historical Association’s scheme of work to explore the fascinating world of Ancient Greece. The children will investigate the importance of Greek myths and legends and compare life in the contrasting city-states of Athens and Sparta. We will also discover how the Ancient Greeks helped to shape mathematics, philosophy and medicine, as well as exploring the origins and significance of the Olympic Games. Throughout the topic, children will develop their historical enquiry skills by examining evidence, asking questions and considering the lasting influence of Ancient Greece on the modern world.

TTRockstars - Daily for just 5 minutes playing time (little and often is the key to mastery). To help you monitor your child's playing time a target of 25 minutes for the week has been set which will decrease as they play.
Reading - We encourage pupils to read a wide range of texts for pleasure at home, whatever these may be. The home learning expectation is that 30 minutes of reading is completed 3 times a week (or similar amount over several days) - this, of course, doesn't mean that lots more shouldn't be done. Even if your child is a confident reader please continue to discuss their reading with them.
Spelling - Spelling Shed activities. 10 minutes, 3 times a week.

Thank you for your support.

Miss Laura Bailey

Panthers class teacher & History Lead

Hello, I’m Miss Bailey, the Panthers class teacher and History Lead at Dale Hall. This is my fifth year at the school, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of such a wonderful community. I especially love teaching Year 5 and helping children grow in confidence, independence and curiosity throughout the year. I always try to find the fun in every area of learning and create a classroom where every child feels valued, listened to and able to have their voice heard.

Mr Toby Hatcher

PE Lead & Tigers Class Teacher

Mr Hatcher is a new member of the Year 5 team and also serves as our PE Lead. He is passionate about promoting physical activity and encourages all children to get involved in sport both in and out of school. Mr Hatcher plays a key role in running after-school clubs and creating opportunities for pupils to stay active, build confidence, and enjoy teamwork.

Teaching Assistants

Our Teaching Assistants in Year 5 this year are Mrs Ward, Mrs Wilce and our Learning Support Assistant is Mrs Gowers.

Diversity in our curriculum

In Year 5, we are committed to creating a rich and inclusive curriculum that reflects the diverse world in which our children live. Diversity is not treated as a stand-alone topic; it is meaningfully woven throughout our lessons, stories and discussions across the year. We want every child to feel seen, valued and heard, while also developing the curiosity and confidence to learn about experiences beyond their own. Through our curriculum, children encounter and are inspired by people of different abilities, backgrounds, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, religions and ethnicities. By celebrating difference and exploring a wide range of voices and perspectives, we aim to nurture acceptance, empathy and respect. Our curriculum continues to grow and evolve, and ensuring that it represents our whole community remains something we feel deeply passionate about.