Curriculum Information 2026-27 E Group (Year 5)
Learning Through Topics The Junior School follows a one-week timetable and a topic-based curriculum. Learning across different subjects is often connected to the term’s topic, allowing pupils to explore ideas in depth and understand how knowledge and skills connect. Each topic begins by asking: What do we already know? What do we want to find out? Questions, discussion and discovery help shape the learning that follows. Trips, practical activities and first-hand experiences bring each topic to life, while pupils continue to develop essential knowledge and core skills across the curriculum.
Our approach to learning Every pupil brings different strengths, experiences and needs to their learning. At St Chris, we combine ambitious academic goals with deep learning, curiosity and meaningful engagement. We provide the right balance of support and challenge for each pupil, helping them to make progress, develop confidence and grow academically, socially and personally.
Our Year At A Glance Autumn: Space We explore our solar system, learning about the planets, the Sun, the Moon and the stars that fill our night sky. Pupils develop their understanding of space while learning about the Space Race and the achievements of significant figures, including Yuri Gagarin, Valentina Tereshkova, Neil Armstrong and Tim Peake.
Spring: Australia We journey to the other side of the world to explore Australia's unique landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage. Pupils investigate Australia's physical geography and learn about the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, alongside the impact of British settlement on modern Australia.
Summer: Ancient Rome We travel back in time to discover how Ancient Rome grew into one of the most influential civilisations in history. Pupils explore Roman society, culture and daily life, while learning about significant figures such as Julius Caesar, Augustus and Boudicca and the lasting legacy of the Roman Empire.
Tracking Progress Teachers regularly observe and assess pupils’ learning, building a clear understanding of each pupil’s strengths, progress and areas for development. Half-termly meetings with the Head of the Junior School help identify where an individual pupil may benefit from additional support or greater challenge. Small classes and support from teaching assistants also allow for focused group work where needed. Families receive two academic reports each year, alongside a parent consultation every term and teachers are always available for individual meetings.
Homework Homework is meaningful, manageable and connected to pupils’ learning in school. Pupils are offered a selection of age-appropriate enrichment activities, typically choosing three or four to complete. These may involve creative projects, practical challenges or research, with some offering opportunities for the whole family to take part.
Weekly Hours Per Subject This graphic represents a typical week in E Group.
Maths 4 Hours 50 mins
English 6 Hours 20 mins
Science 1 Hour 40 mins Activities 50 mins Games 50 mins
Humanities 1 Hour 40 mins French 50 mins
Art & DT 1 Hour 40 mins PE 50 mins
Music 50 mins Computing 50 mins
Swimming 45 mins
PSHE & RSE 50 mins Forest School
1 Hour 40 mins (each HT)
Core Learning
taught by class teachers English (including reading, handwriting and spelling) 6 Hours 20 mins
Maths 4 Hours 50 mins
English is closely linked to our topic work, providing rich opportunities for reading, discussion and writing. Pupils develop reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, punctuation and writing skills while exploring a range of engaging texts. Focus: Reading • Writing • Vocabulary • Grammar • Communication
Using Power Maths, pupils develop confidence and fluency across key areas of mathematics. Learning includes number, fractions, decimals, geometry and algebra, with an emphasis on reasoning, problem-solving and applying mathematics in different contexts. Focus: Fluency • Problem-solving • Reasoning • Mathematical Thinking
Science 1 Hour 40 mins
Humanities (Geography/ History) 1 Hour 40 mins
Pupils develop scientific knowledge through practical investigation and enquiry. Topics include animals including humans, forces, materials, plants and space. Pupils learn to ask questions, make predictions, and draw conclusions from their findings. Focus: Question • Predict • Investigate • Explain
Humanities learning is woven through our topics, helping pupils understand people, places and events from the past and present. Pupils develop historical enquiry skills, explore a range of sources and learn how geography shapes communities and environments. Focus: Evidence • Analysis • Maps • Discussion • Debate
Creative, Personal and Technology taught by class teachers
Art & Design Technology 1 Hour 40 mins
PSHE & RSE 50 mins
Computing 50 mins
Art and Design Technology are inspired by our topics and encourage creativity, experimentation and self-expression. Pupils explore a range of media and techniques while developing artistic skills and confidence in their own ideas.
PSHE and RSE support pupils in staying safe, happy and healthy while developing positive and respectful relationships. Following the SCARF programme, Year 5 learning includes emotional wellbeing, online safety, relationships, stereotypes, puberty and human reproduction. Teaching takes place in a safe and inclusive environment, and pupils are never expected to share personal experiences. Parents are informed in advance about RSE content. Our “MR P” ICT curriculum supports students in developing essential digital skills through a creative approach. Using the DARES model (Design, Apply, Refine, Evaluate, Share), students plan, create, improve, reflect on and share their work. Pupils learn to code, solve problems and use technology confidently while creating, refining and sharing digital work.
Creative and Languages
taught by subject specialist teachers
French 50 mins
Pupils build confidence in speaking, listening, reading and writing French. They develop vocabulary, grammar and communication skills through engaging activities and real-life contexts.
Music 50 mins
Pupils develop their musical skills through singing, performance, composition, improvisation and listening. They work collaboratively using tuned percussion, keyboards and Music Technology while developing their understanding of notation and musical styles.
Learning beyond the classroom taught by subject specialist teachers
Activities 50 mins
Throughout Years 5 and 6, pupils spend time in Senior School each week as part of their transition activities, where they become familiar with the environment and are taught by Senior School teachers. E Group pupils follow a carousel of subjects including: Computer Science • Food Technology • Pottery Students take each subject twice during the year, helping them develop new skills and confidence as they prepare for Senior School.
PE 50 mins
Pupils develop fundamental skills through: Fitness • Dance • Outdoor Learning • Gymnastics • Tennis • Athletics They build confidence, coordination and resilience, with opportunities to extend learning through clubs and competitive sport.
Games 50 mins
Our programme develops sporting skills, tactical thinking and teamwork. Autumn: Football & Netball Spring: Rugby & Hockey Summer: Cricket & Rounders Pupils learn about fair play, decision-making and the importance of an active lifestyle.
Swimming 45 mins
Swimming develops confidence, stamina and technique in the water. Pupils refine front and back crawl while working towards proficiency in breaststroke, butterfly and competitive starts and turns.
Forest School 1.5 Hours (per half term)
Forest School encourages curiosity, resilience and a connection with the natural world. Pupils explore seasonal change, life cycles and habitats while developing practical outdoor skills through hands-on activities and collaborative play.