Homework in Class Comet is designed to be manageable, meaningful and to make a real difference to children’s learning. Educational research shows that practising reading, spelling and times tables little and often at home has a significant impact on children’s attainment and progress. Just 10–15 minutes a day makes a big difference! While we don’t want homework to feel like a burden, the tasks we set are vitally important in helping pupils build confidence and fluency.

• Spellings are set every Tuesday and tested the following Monday. These are drawn from the National Curriculum word lists for Years 4, 5 and 6, or from pupils’ current phonics phase.

• Reading is an ongoing expectation. We ask that children read at home every day, recording this in their reading records, which are checked weekly.

• Times tables activities are set weekly, and children should also continue to use Times Tables Rock Stars at home to develop speed and fluency.

• Year 6 pupils are given one additional piece of English and maths homework each week, linked to their current learning, to help prepare them for the home learning routines of secondary school.

By supporting children with these regular short tasks, families help reinforce the learning we do in school and ensure every child keeps moving forward with confidence.

Reading with your child advice booklet (Year 4)

Reading with your child advice booklet (Year 5)

Reading with your child advice booklet (Year 6)

Numeracy at home toolkit

This Year's Topics (Cycle 1)

Africa Curriculum Coverage:

Mathematics

Year 4
This term, Year 4 pupils will develop their understanding of Decimals, learning to recognise tenths and hundredths, compare and order decimal numbers and make links between decimals, fractions and money. They will then move on to Money, where children will practise converting between pounds and pence, estimating and calculating totals, and solving real-life problems involving spending and change.

Pupils will also study Time, learning to read and write analogue and digital times, convert between different units of time and solve problems involving timetables and durations. In Shape, children will explore the properties of 2D and 3D shapes, compare angles and develop their understanding of symmetry and lines of symmetry. Finally, pupils will investigate Statistics and Direction, interpreting charts and graphs, presenting data clearly and learning how to describe position and movement using coordinates, turns and directional language.

Years 5 & 6
This term, pupils in Years 5 and 6 will begin by studying Ratio, learning how quantities can be compared multiplicatively and applying ratio reasoning to practical problems and real-life contexts. They will then move on to Algebra, where they will use simple formulae, identify patterns, solve missing number problems and develop their understanding of mathematical relationships using symbols and equations.

In Shape, pupils will explore angles, properties of polygons and the relationships between different shapes, while also developing accuracy in measuring and drawing. This learning links closely to Position and Direction, where children will use coordinates in four quadrants, describe translations and movements, and interpret position using mathematical vocabulary.

Pupils will also study Statistics, interpreting and presenting data using graphs, charts and tables, and using information to solve problems and draw conclusions. Finally, they will focus on Converting Units, learning to convert between measures of length, mass, capacity and time, and applying these skills to a range of practical and multi-step mathematical problems.

---

English

This term, our English learning begins with instructions and recipe writing, inspired by a range of African dishes and traditional foods. Pupils will explore the features of instructional writing, including clear sequencing, imperative verbs and precise vocabulary, before creating their own recipes and step-by-step guides. Children will also develop their understanding of organisation and clarity, learning how writers make instructions easy to follow and engaging for the reader.

We then move on to shape poetry, where pupils will experiment with presenting poems visually to reflect their subject matter and meaning. Through this unit, children will explore imagery, word choice and layout while developing a strong focus on figurative language, including similes, metaphors, personification and hyperbole. Many of the poems will be inspired by memories and experiences from our recent residential trip, helping pupils write creatively about adventure, challenge and teamwork.

Later in the term, pupils will study African stories and legends, exploring traditional tales from a variety of African cultures and countries. Children will examine themes, characters and morals within these stories before planning and writing their own narrative pieces inspired by the storytelling traditions they have studied.

Pupils will also develop their persuasive writing skills through a persuasive letter unit, where they will write to argue for greater diversity in the school menu and wider opportunities to experience foods from different cultures. They will learn how to structure arguments effectively, support ideas with evidence and use persuasive devices such as rhetorical questions, emotive language and repetition to influence the reader.

During Take One Book Week in Summer 2, children will focus on informal postcard writing, exploring how writers communicate experiences, thoughts and feelings in a personal and engaging way. Pupils will write postcards linked to stories, reading experiences and imagined journeys, while developing their understanding of audience, tone and informal language features.

---

Science

In Summer 1, pupils will study Habitats, exploring how living things are suited to the environments in which they live and how plants and animals depend on one another for survival. Children will investigate a variety of habitats around the world, identify how organisms adapt to different conditions and learn about the importance of biodiversity within ecosystems. Linked to this learning, pupils will also explore the issue of Deforestation, considering how human activity affects habitats, wildlife and the wider environment. They will examine the impact of rainforest destruction, discuss sustainability and consider how people can help protect natural environments for the future.

In Summer 2, the focus shifts to The Digestive System and Food Chains. Pupils will learn about the main parts of the human digestive system and understand how food is broken down and nutrients are absorbed by the body. They will investigate the functions of different organs and explore the importance of healthy eating and nutrition. Alongside this, children will study Food Chains, learning how energy is transferred between producers, predators and prey within ecosystems. They will construct and interpret food chains and food webs, using scientific vocabulary accurately to explain relationships between living things. Throughout the term, pupils will continue developing key scientific enquiry skills through observation, classification, research and practical investigation.

---

History

This term, pupils will study the history of South Africa and Apartheid, exploring how the country changed over time from early colonial settlement through to modern-day democracy. Children will begin by learning about the Dutch colonisation of the Cape, investigating why European settlers arrived in South Africa and how colonisation affected indigenous communities and ways of life.

Pupils will then explore the growing influence of British rule, the development of racial segregation and the events that eventually led to the system of Apartheid. They will investigate what life was like under Apartheid laws, considering how rights and freedoms were restricted for non-white South Africans and examining the impact this had on everyday life, education, housing and opportunities.

Children will also study key individuals and organisations involved in resisting Apartheid, including Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress, learning how protest, activism and international pressure contributed to change. Finally, pupils will examine the end of Apartheid and the development of modern South Africa, reflecting on themes of equality, justice and human rights. Throughout the unit, children will work with historical sources, develop their understanding of chronology and build their historical enquiry skills by comparing different perspectives and interpretations of the past.

---

Geography

This term, pupils will explore the topic of Water World, developing their understanding of the importance of water across the planet and the ways it shapes both human life and the natural environment. Children will begin by investigating where water is found on Earth, learning about different bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, seas and oceans, and exploring the difference between fresh water and salt water.

Pupils will then study the water cycle, learning how processes such as evaporation, condensation and precipitation allow water to move continuously around our planet. They will explore why the water cycle is essential for ecosystems, farming, wildlife and human survival.

As the unit develops, children will investigate water usage and conservation, considering how water is used in homes, schools and communities and learning about the importance of protecting this valuable resource. They will explore where our water comes from, how it is treated and transported, and how individuals can reduce water waste in everyday life.

Pupils will also compare water availability in the UK and Kenya, exploring how access to clean water differs around the world and examining the challenges faced by water-scarce countries. Through maps, data and discussion, children will consider how climate, infrastructure and geography affect people’s access to water and how communities work to overcome these challenges.

Finally, children will investigate hydropower and sustainability, learning how water can be used to generate renewable energy and support a more sustainable future. They will explore the advantages and disadvantages of hydroelectric dams and consider the environmental impact of different energy sources. The unit concludes with opportunities for practical fieldwork and local investigations, where pupils observe and evaluate bodies of water within their own environment.

---

Art

This term in Art, pupils will explore Art of Africa. They will start by investigating the natural patterns of animal prints, observing the repetitions, symmetry, shapes and textures of each. They will recreate the patterns using a medium of their choice. Next, they will study Tingatinga paintings and their history, picking out the defining features of this style of painting before attempting to recreate the style. Children will then delve into the history of the kingdom of Benin by analysing, observing and discovering the artwork that was made during this time. They will investigate how the precious artefacts like the bronze plaques can tell us more about the magnificent Obas of the kingdoms before using clay to sculpt their own plaques. Towards the end of the topic, pupils will be introduced to Esther Mahlangu and her culture of Ndebele patterns before finally investigating the Adinkra symbols of the old Ashanti kingdom.

---

Design & Technology

This term in DT, pupils will learn all about seasonal food and seasonal cooking. To begin, pupils will learn why certain British foods are seasonal, and consider some pros and cons of foods from other parts of the world being available all year round. They will learn more about the process of wheat production. Pupils will then learn how and when a variety of fruits are produced in Britain, including how farming methods are used to slow down or speed up the ripening process. They will review their knowledge and practise using the bridge hold to chop fruit. Following that they will learn about a variety of vegetables grown in Britain, when they are in season, and why they are important in a healthy diet. They will create a seasonal food collage and will look at the claw grip for chopping and dicing the vegetables. Next, pupils will learn about the nutritional value of meat, eggs and dairy products, as well as discover why some meats are seasonal and some are available all year round. They may try tasting and describing a range of vegetarian foods. Children will also learn about how, where and when fish is farmed or caught in Britain, consider some issues associated with fishing, and learn about quality assurance marks on the fish we buy. Finally, pupils will learn about some unusual foods that are only in season for a brief period each year. 

 

---

Computing
This term in Computing, pupils will learn the structure of the coding language of Logo using Purple Mash. They will learn to input simple instructions in Logo. They will write programs to create letter shapes and also use the repeat function in Logo to create shapes. Finally, they will use and build procedures in Logo in order to solve puzzles, stop the Evil Logoator and save civilisation. 

Pupils will also learn about effective website searching. They will locate information on the search results page, use search effectively to find out information, learn how to use key vocabulary to create a search term that does not present bias and learn to assess whether an information source is true and reliable. 

---

PSHE

Year 4
In the Being My Best unit, pupils will explore what makes them unique while developing confidence, resilience and healthy habits. Children will learn about positive choices, teamwork, responsibility and contributing to their school community, as well as developing practical knowledge of basic first aid and staying safe.

In the Growing and Changing unit, pupils will explore emotions, relationships and the changes that happen as people grow older. They will discuss managing feelings, coping with change, understanding puberty in an age-appropriate way and recognising the importance of trust, safety and positive relationships.

Year 5
In the Being My Best unit, pupils will explore how to maintain both physical and emotional wellbeing while developing confidence and independence. Children will learn about how the body works and the importance of healthy lifestyles, reflect on their strengths and personal qualities, and consider how they can contribute positively to their school community. Pupils will also explore responsibility, resilience and how the media can sometimes present unrealistic portrayals of people. The unit concludes with Basic First Aid, including learning about emergencies and developing awareness of Sepsis and how to respond safely and appropriately.

In the Growing and Changing unit, pupils will explore emotions, relationships and the physical and emotional changes that take place during puberty. Children will develop strategies for recognising and managing feelings, discuss safe and unsafe secrets, and learn about changing bodies in an age-appropriate and supportive way. They will also explore how emotions, relationships and responsibilities can change as they grow older, helping to prepare them for the transition into adolescence with confidence and understanding.

Year 6
In the Being My Best unit, pupils will explore how to make positive choices that support both physical and emotional wellbeing as they prepare for secondary school and beyond. Children will consider future aspirations, risk-taking behaviours and personal responsibility, while developing strategies for managing pressure and making informed decisions. Pupils will also learn important first aid skills, including awareness of Sepsis, and take part in a Five Ways to Wellbeing project focused on mental health, resilience and maintaining healthy lifestyles.

In the Growing and Changing unit, pupils will explore body image, online influence, relationships and the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty. Children will discuss how media and social media can affect self-esteem, learn strategies for managing pressure both online and offline, and develop a clearer understanding of relationships, reproduction and emotional wellbeing. The unit supports pupils in preparing for adolescence and transition with confidence, empathy and an age-appropriate understanding of change.

---

Physical Education

This term in PE, pupils will develop teamwork, coordination and tactical awareness through a range of competitive games and physical activities. In Invasion Games – Basketball, children will practise key skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting and defending while learning how to work effectively as part of a team and apply tactics during game situations.

Pupils will also take part in Striking and Fielding Games, where they will develop skills such as striking, catching, throwing and fielding. Through a variety of team games and challenges, children will improve communication, decision-making and strategic thinking while building confidence, resilience and sportsmanship.

Alongside this, children will begin Athletics and Sports Day preparation, developing running, jumping and throwing techniques through a range of individual and team events. Pupils will focus on improving speed, stamina and coordination while learning the importance of determination, fair competition and encouraging others.

---

Music

This term in Music, pupils will learn about the music of Africa. Africa is a huge continent with a rich and diverse cultural and musical history. There are many types of musical styles and traditions to come from Africa. This unit focuses on drumming styles popular in West Africa and folk songs.

---

Spanish

Year 4
In Spanish, Year 4 pupils will study School and Town through the Twinkl Lightning Languages scheme. Children will develop vocabulary linked to classroom objects, subjects and places in a town while practising simple conversations, questions and directions through games, songs and speaking activities.

Year 5
Year 5 pupils will explore Transport and The Body, developing their ability to speak and write in fuller sentences using a wider range of vocabulary. Through the Twinkl Lightning Languages scheme, children will build confidence in pronunciation, conversation and basic grammar through interactive activities and role play.

Year 6
In Year 6, pupils will study Sport and Fashion, learning to express opinions, describe preferences and use increasingly confident spoken and written Spanish. Through the Twinkl Lightning Languages scheme, children will continue developing fluency, pronunciation and grammatical accuracy.

---

RE

This term, pupils will explore Buddhism and Buddhist Festivals, developing their understanding of Buddhist beliefs, teachings and traditions. Children will learn about the life and teachings of the Buddha and explore how Buddhism differs from other religions, including the importance of reflection, respect and the search for enlightenment.

Pupils will study a range of important Buddhist festivals, including Vesak, The Ploughing Festival, Loy Krathong and Songkran. Through stories, discussion and creative activities, children will explore why Buddhists celebrate these events and how festivals help followers remember the teachings of the Buddha. They will investigate themes such as kindness, respect, reflection, cleansing, generosity and the importance of helping others, while also comparing Buddhist traditions with celebrations and beliefs from other cultures and religions.

---

Drama

This term, pupils will rehearse and perform our summer production of Oliver With A Twist, a lively adaptation inspired by Oliver Twist. Through learning lines, songs and stage direction, children will develop confidence in performance, expression and characterisation while working collaboratively as part of a cast and production team. Pupils will explore themes such as friendship, belonging and resilience, while building important skills in speaking, listening and performance throughout the rehearsal process and final performances.

Class Comet Timetable

Year 4/5/6 Yearly Overview

Year 4 Curriculum Expectations

Year 5 Curriculum Expectations

Year 6 Curriculum Expectations

In Key Stage 2, children take part in a small number of national assessments. These are designed to check progress against the National Curriculum and to give a clear picture of how children are doing. We always approach these in a calm and supportive way, making sure pupils feel confident and prepared without any unnecessary pressure.

Year 4 – Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

• Taken in June.

• A short online check of 25 quick-fire multiplication questions (up to 12 × 12).

• The focus is on speed and fluency. Results help us see how well children know their times tables and where extra practice might be useful.

Year 6 – SATs (Standard Assessment Tests)

• Taken in May over the course of one week.

• Pupils sit several short papers under formal test conditions, but we make sure the week feels calm and supportive.

  • Reading Test (1 paper, 1 hour): Pupils read a booklet of texts (fiction, non-fiction and poetry) and answer questions to show their understanding, inference and ability to retrieve information.

  • Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling (SPaG): This has two parts — a grammar and punctuation paper (45 minutes of short questions) and a spelling test (around 20 words read aloud).

  • Mathematics: Pupils complete three papers — one arithmetic paper (30 minutes) which tests calculation skills, and two reasoning papers (40 minutes each) which test problem-solving and application of maths in different contexts.

• Writing is not tested by a paper. Instead, it is teacher assessed across the year, using a wide range of independent work from different writing genres.

• The results provide a national benchmark and are shared with secondary schools to help ensure a smooth transition.

How parents can help at home
The best way families can support is through regular reading, encouraging children to practise their times tables, and talking positively about learning. Little and often makes the biggest difference. A calm routine, plenty of encouragement and celebrating small successes all help children to feel confident and ready for any assessment.