Dear Year 5 /6 and parents,

We find ourselves in the last half of the Summer Term of this academic year. Our new topic is 'Beast Creator', during which we will explore the creepy crawlies we can find around our school, sorting, classifying and identifying.  As research scientists and following in the footsteps of Darwin, we will skilfully draw them, with anatomical detail and label their features, and learn about their life cycles, and food webs. We will dive into the miniature world of mini-beasts, writing explanation texts, non-chronological reports and poetry about these wonderful creatures.  Once we have learned what makes the perfect beasts, we will become ‘Beast Creators’ designing the perfect killer predator to save the world from the super-strong aphid. We will draw them and sculpt them, ready to prowl the school grounds.

It is, of course, the time of year when Year 6 are looking ahead to their transition to high school. We can't believe we're at this point already and no doubt as parents, you may be feeling the same way too! The Heads of Year 7 from St Phillip Howard and Bishop Luffa will visit St Richard's to meet the children in the next two weeks.

Please do look out for transition information from your child's new school. Some of the transition information and visits for parents and children visits are in person, other information will be virtual or through correspondence.

In school we have lots of events planned for Year 6 to look forward to before they leave us. We are delighted that Mrs Flood will return to lead a day of prayer and reflection before the Leavers Mass. The children will prepare their 'Leavers Assembly' for the last week of term and have a day of fun events and treats in our 'Forest Festival'.

We also plan to have a number of Year 5/6 phase sports afternoons as well as the official Year 5/6 Sports Day afternoon so exciting times lie ahead for all of the children this term!

Year 5/6 will continue to take part in Forest Schools, so please do look out for the dates for each class. Children will need to be dressed in non-school uniform that is both comfortable and appropriate for the weather on the day.

Here are a few reminders for you and your parents as we return to school:-

• Learning begins at 8.30 am for year 5 and 6. Please arrive on time, as you will be missing key learning opportunities if you are arriving at 8.45am. 
• The windows are open in school so on cooler days, the classrooms can still be a little chilly, so make sure you continue to bring your cardigans and jumpers. Also remember that we will be outside for breaks in all weathers so it is essential to bring a waterproof coat!
• Please only bring your lunch, water bottle and refills for you pencil cases. Small bags or rucksacks only please!
• P.E. kit to be worn on P.E. days. School P.E. uniform only please! 
• Wear comfortable, weather appropriate home clothes for Forest School days. Your clothes will smell of the wood fire and very likely to get a bit muddy so we advise you not to wear your Sunday Best! 
• Remember, if your child has symptoms of Covid-19, please stay at home and inform the school office.
• Please follow the school guidelines to keep everyone safe in school.

We are always here to support our families so if you are in need in any way, please do get in touch, either by phoning or emailing the school office or via our Year 5/6 email address.

With all our love and prayers,

Mrs Courquin, Mrs Purcell, Mr Barnden & Mr Flaxbeard

Mrs Randall, Mrs Dembinski, Mr Al-Bazoon and Mr Orrell

Our Year 5/6 Prayer