Eden Camp is a museum in North Yorkshire. It used to be a prisoner-of-war camp but is now an exciting and immersive theme museum with 29 huts where children can learn about the history and experiences of war, especially the Second World War.

We learnt about air raids by the German Air Force – the Luftwaffe. This was where Germany bombed British towns and cities and was known as the Blitz. It was interesting but shocking to see the bombed street scene as we walked through the Blitz hut.

As well as this, we learnt about why blackouts and air raid shelters were necessary during WW2. We even got to go in some air raid shelters!

This all links with our class novel, Letters from the Lighthouse, where our main characters experience an air raid in the first chapter.

Eden Camp have a blog with lots of insightful posts where you can explore specific events in more detail. Check it out here: https://edencamp.co.uk/our-blog/

This week, a flood incident led us to take our science lesson outdoors where we became mini-explorers! We searched for minibeasts, observing and collecting a variety of creatures like worms, spiders and woodlice. Students closely examined their features and discussed ways to classify them using their knowledge of classification keys.

We also considered the habitats and conditions where we found these creatures, learning how different environments support different types of minibeasts. It was a hands-on science session that gave everyone a closer look at the fascinating world of tiny creatures around us!

In the coming weeks, we will be finding out about a man named Carl Linnaeus who is known as the father of modern taxonomy (the classification of living things). Find out more here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/class-clips-video/articles/zhnjf4j

Check out this online lesson about classification keys: https://www.thenational.academy/teachers/programmes/science-primary-ks2/units/living-things-and-the-environment/lessons/classification-keys#worksheet

This week, we had an exciting outdoor adventure to Meanwood Valley Trail! Along the way, we practiced our map skills, carefully navigating as we made our way to the Seven Arches Aqueduct. Once there, we delved into its fascinating history, gathering information to inspire our upcoming information text writing.

Our nature exploration included identifying various trees by their leaves and listening closely to the natural sounds around us. One highlight was spotting a unique monkey puzzle tree—a perfect connection to what we’d been reading about in class! We also collected leaves for an art project we’re working on. It was a memorable experience that brought together history, nature, and skill-building!

You can find out more about Seven Arches Aqueduct and see some images of the aqueduct through time by clicking this link here: https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/heritage-and-retro/retro/seven-arches-aqueduct-the-story-of-a-man-made-wonder-of-leeds-4152501

View some useful leaf identification resources here: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2020/03/tree-id-kids/

The Ordnance Survey website has some great map skills games and activities: https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/education/discover-mapzone

What a fantastic first week we’ve had in Year 6! We’ve been busy settling in, getting to know one another and diving into our exciting learning topics. Here’s are just a few of the things we’ve been up to:

Getting to Know Each Other: We started the week with some fun getting-to-know-you games which helped us learn more about each other and build a strong sense of community in our classroom.

Creative Learning with Homophones: In spelling, we’ve been exploring homophones and had some fun creating “homophone pears” for our display. The class came up with some brilliant pairs like “jeans” and “genes” and turned them into colourful and creative artwork.

Reading: Our reading unit this term is all about trees, and we’ve started by exploring some interesting texts about these incredible plants. The children are already making thoughtful connections and asking insightful questions.

Art Adventures: In art, we kicked off our unit with some skill based work on one-point perspective and a study of James Bywood, an artist known for his vibrant landscapes. The students were inspired by his work and created their own beautiful landscape pieces using oil pastels – we will be finishing these next week.

Collective Worship and Compliment Circle: This week, our collective worship focused on our school vision: “We are one body of many parts.” As part of this, we participated in a “compliment circle” where each student had the opportunity to give and receive compliments. It was a heartwarming activity that allowed us to recognise the unique qualities each person brings to our class. The kindness and positivity shared were truly uplifting.

Class Novel – Letters from the Lighthouse: We’ve made a great start on our class novel, Letters from the Lighthouse. The story has already captured our imaginations and we’re looking forward to following the characters on their journey. Ask your child about what they think of the book so far – we’d love for you to join in on the excitement!

Maths Fun: To round off the week, we played some engaging maths games that had everyone thinking and problem-solving in creative ways.

Apple Tasting: We also had the chance to try some apples from the orchard. It was a fun and tasty way to explore the differences in texture and taste and the students enjoyed sharing their thoughts on their favourites.