✨ Spring Term Success and New Beginnings 2026

We’ve had a fantastic start to the new term and to 2026! The children have come back refreshed, positive and ready to learn, and it has been wonderful to see such enthusiasm in the classroom. We have also made an excellent start to our exciting new topic, “Would You Rather…? Día de los Muertos or Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Sant?” The children are already showing great curiosity as we begin exploring and comparing these two special countries.

📚 Language, Literacy and Communication

In Language, Literacy and Communication, we have been focusing on persuasive writing. The children have explored the key features of persuasive texts, including emotive language and the rule of three, and have identified how these techniques are used to influence an audience. They created their own persuasive speeches to encourage families to come to our school, thinking carefully about strong vocabulary and powerful arguments. We also explored the role of an estate agent and examined how language can be used to persuade people to buy a house. Linking our learning to our class novel, The Boy at the Back of the Class, we looked at persuasive leaflets and then designed our own leaflets to persuade people to visit London. The children have shown great creativity and confidence in using persuasive techniques effectively.

Maths and Numeracy ➕➖✖️➗

In Maths, we have been focusing on fractions. The children have been developing their understanding of equivalent fractions, comparing and ordering fractions, and recognising how fractions relate to division and whole numbers. They have used practical resources and visual representations to deepen their understanding and have been building their confidence in solving fraction problems step by step. It has been fantastic to see their resilience when tackling more challenging questions and their growing ability to explain their reasoning using mathematical vocabulary.

Humanities 🏰

In Humanities, we have been exploring the key features of Wales and Mexico as part of our “Would You Rather…?” topic. The children were split into two teams — Wales and Mexico — and have become experts in their chosen country. They researched geographical features, traditions, culture and landmarks, before creating PowerPoint presentations to support their teaching. Each group presented to their peers, confidently sharing their knowledge and answering questions. To conclude, the children had to consider the big question: Would they rather… Wales or Mexico? They used the information they had learned to justify their opinions with thoughtful reasons and evidence. It has been wonderful to see such teamwork, independence and enthusiasm for learning.

💡 RVE: Finding Light in the Darkness: Learning from Jewish Traditions

In RVE, we have been exploring the big question: “How have Jewish people in Wales and the world found light in the darkness?” The children discovered how Jewish traditions such as Passover and Yom Kippur help communities find hope and strength during difficult times. They thought creatively about what a modern-day Seder plate might include, reflecting on how each food symbolizes resilience and remembrance. We also studied history, including the Kindertransport and how Jewish children from Europe were welcomed into the Welsh valleys, showing how acts of kindness and welcome bring light in dark times. The children learned about Beth Shalon and Stolpersteine, or “stumbling stones,” understanding why remembering the names of individuals, not just numbers, keeps their stories alive. Through all of these activities, the children have explored the many ways people can find hope, courage, and light even in challenging circumstances.

Science & Technology: Fusion Flavours in the Making: Preparing for Next Half Term 🌮

In Science and Technology, our focus has been on Design Technology, with a delicious twist! The children have been following recipes carefully, learning about kitchen safety, and exploring the flavours and cooking techniques from both Mexico and Wales. They experimented with ingredients and methods to create dishes such as Welsh cakes, cawl, Torrejas, and Mexican bean burgers. Linking to our big question of “Would you rather…?”, the children had to taste, compare, and decide which dishes they preferred, thinking about flavour, texture, and cultural significance. This work has also been in preparation for their fusion dish creation next half term, where they will combine elements from both countries to invent their own exciting recipes. It has been fantastic to see them develop confidence in the kitchen, work safely, and enjoy discovering the tastes of different countries.

Expressive Arts - 🌄 Art in Action: From Frida Kahlo to Three Cliffs Bay

In Expressive Arts, we have been inspired by the life and work of the artist Frida Kahlo, exploring her resilience and creativity. The children studied her self-portraits and her famous saying, “Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?”, reflecting on its meaning and how it represents strength and determination. They created their own self-portraits inspired by Frida Kahlo and collaborated on a mural of a set of wings, with each child designing their own feathers, creating a photo opportunity to celebrate individuality and teamwork. We also enjoyed a paint-along session, where the children learned a range of acrylic painting techniques and created a beautiful Gower landscape of Three Cliffs Bay. Through these activities, the children have developed confidence in their artistic skills, explored symbolism in art, and expressed their creativity in exciting and meaningful ways.