Welcome to Maple Class
Welcome to Maple Class! We are delighted to welcome you to Year 5, an exciting year where children continue to grow in confidence, independence and responsibility as they prepare for their final year of primary school.
In Maple Class, we provide a happy, supportive and engaging learning environment where every child is encouraged to challenge themselves, develop resilience and achieve their very best. Through exciting lessons, practical experiences and memorable enrichment opportunities, we inspire children to become curious, ambitious learners who are ready for the next stage of their education, helping every child to Belong, Believe and Be the Best They Can Be.
Throughout the year, children enjoy a broad and ambitious curriculum that develops their knowledge, skills and understanding across all subjects while encouraging creativity, collaboration and independence.
Meet the Team
- Mrs Lewthwaite – Class Teacher
- Mrs Leicester – Teaching Assistant
- Mrs Wellings – Teaching Assistant (Monday–Wednesday)
- Mr Mills – Teaching Assistant (Thursday and Friday mornings)
- Mrs Williams – PPA Cover (Thursday afternoon)
PE
Our PE lessons take place every Tuesday and Friday.
Children should come to school wearing their full PE kit on these days:
- Red KWPS PE T-shirt
- Red school jumper or cardigan
- Black shorts
- Black tracksuit bottoms (weather dependent)
- Black trainers
During the Spring and Summer Terms, children also take part in swimming lessons, helping them continue to develop confidence and competence in the water.
Please ensure all clothing is clearly named. Earrings should be removed before school on PE days and long hair tied back.
Our Learning
Learning in Maple Class is exciting, challenging and designed to prepare children for the transition into Year 6.
Throughout the year, children enjoy a broad and ambitious curriculum that develops their knowledge, skills and understanding across all subjects.
In History, children explore The Blitz and Beyond, investigating how World War II affected people's lives in Britain. They also study the Tudors, discovering the impact Henry VIII had on Britain, before travelling further back in time to investigate the Shang Dynasty and one of the world's earliest civilisations.
In Geography, children investigate where our food comes from, exploring farming, trade and sustainability. They learn about the human and physical features of the United Kingdom and consider how human activity has shaped our country. Later in the year, they study earthquakes, discovering why they occur, where they are found around the world and examining the impact earthquakes have had on China.
Our Art curriculum encourages creativity through photography inspired by Bill Brandt, collage inspired by Hans Holbein and drawing influenced by the Chinese artist Shitao.
In Design and Technology, children develop practical skills by constructing Anderson shelters, designing and making Tudor purses using textiles, and creating celebration biscuits as part of their food technology learning.
Reading remains at the heart of everything we do in Maple Class. Through high-quality class texts, guided reading and independent reading opportunities, children develop fluency, comprehension, vocabulary and a lifelong love of reading.
Forest School
Following the October half-term, Maple Class takes part in weekly Forest School sessions every Friday morning until Christmas.
These sessions provide opportunities for children to develop resilience, teamwork, leadership and confidence while learning in the natural environment. Outdoor learning also continues throughout the year across a range of curriculum subjects whenever possible.
Homework
We believe that regular practice at home helps children develop confidence and independence.
Reading
Children should read for 10–15 minutes every evening. Please sign your child's Reading Record each time you hear them read. The Reading Record also contains useful guidance to support reading at home.
Spellings
Weekly spelling activities are sent home to reinforce spelling patterns and vocabulary taught in class. Spellings are tested each Friday.
Times Tables
Regular practice on Times Tables Rock Stars helps children maintain fluency and confidence with multiplication facts while supporting wider mathematical learning.
Educational Visits and Enrichment
Learning is enriched through a variety of educational visits, visitors and wider opportunities throughout the year, helping to bring the curriculum to life.
Children enjoy regular visits to Kirkham Library, attend a range of enrichment events hosted by local high schools and welcome visitors into school who share their expertise and inspire our learning.
A highlight of Year 5 is our educational visit to London, where children visit the Houses of Parliament and explore many of the capital's famous landmarks. This memorable experience enhances their understanding of British history, democracy and geography while creating lasting memories with their classmates.
Keeping You Updated
We love sharing the children's achievements and learning throughout the year. Regular updates, photographs and important information will be shared through Class Dojo, so please check in regularly to see what we've been learning and keep up to date with class news.
Working Together
We value the strong partnership between home and school and believe children achieve their very best when we work together. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us through Class Dojo or via the school office.
We look forward to making Year 5 a happy, successful and memorable year for every child.
The Maple Class Team