Columba and Aquila - Reflect and Review

Dear Parents and Carers,

We had another creative and purposeful week in both Columba and Aquila. Aquila completed their mock SATs papers, showing great focus, effort and resilience throughout their assessments.

In English, Columba began exploring the language and structure of documentary scripts, studying how presenters such as David Attenborough use formal tone, precise vocabulary and cohesion to guide the audience. Both classes identified key features, and practised writing short segments using clear narration and factual detail. 

As mathematicians, Columba continued developing their understanding of fractions, focusing on adding and subtracting mixed numbers and applying these methods to increasingly challenging reasoning problems.

As geographers, we continued our exploration of the USA by studying rainfall patterns and considering how water creates both opportunities and challenges, such as floods, drought and agriculture. We also examined how New York has changed over time, looking at its development, population growth and iconic landmarks.

Next Week

In English, we will plan and write our own documentary reports. Children will apply formal language, cohesive devices and carefully selected vocabulary to create clear, engaging and informative pieces.

In Maths, Columba will learn how to subtract fractions from a mixed number and subtract two mixed numbers, using these skills in a variety of contexts. 

In RE, we will explore the enquiry question: Does belief in the Trinity help Christians make better sense of God as a whole? We will reflect on Christian beliefs and consider different viewpoints to deepen understanding.

Mr Waldock has asked for donations of junk modelling for our Christmas house event on Friday. He would like as many cereal boxes, cardboard rolls, yoghurt pots, etc as is possible! No giant boxes please, nothing where a side is bigger than A3 paper!

Home Learning

Please ensure that the Maths Practice Journals are returned on Monday. We encourage all children to read regularly at home and continue practising their weekly spellings. Revisiting key number facts and times tables will further support their confidence in lessons.

Key Dates

• 15th December – Reading Passports returned to school
• 18th December – BFG
• 19th December – End of Term (1:00pm Finish)

Spirit Week

We are excited to announce that our Christmas Spirit Week is coming up from 15th – 19th December. Throughout the week, students are invited to join in the festive fun by dressing up according to each day’s theme and helping us celebrate the holiday season. Participation is completely optional. If your child chooses not to take part in the themed dress-up days, they should come to school in their regular uniform as usual. We look forward to a joyful and spirited week together!

Monday – All Aboard the Polar Express! Start the week by jumping on the festive train! Come dressed for a magical ride: PJs, conductor vibes, or any look that screams “hot chocolate at 3 AM.”

Tuesday – Sparkle and shine.Time to sleigh the runway! Wear your most shimmering, glimmering, twinkling outfits.

Wednesday – Head-to-Toe Christmas.Bring out your merry headgear and Christmas shoes and socks. If your toes are dashing and your head is dancing… you’re on the right track.

Thursday – Christmas Jumper Day 2.0 You snow the drill: pull out those festive jumpers for round two! The bolder, the brighter, the better.

Friday – Freestyle Christmas It’s time to express your elf! Anything Christmasy goes: reindeer glam, gingerbread chic, full Santa realness...