The Magic of Growing Plants!
The students in Year 2CN have been investigating all about how plants grow!
Our first discovery was that not all plants start the same way. While we focused primarily on seeds, we learned that some plants, like tulips or onions, actually grow from bulbs! This added a fun layer to our understanding of plant reproduction.
To truly understand how growth begins, we conducted an important dissection. The students carefully split open a bean seed and were amazed to identify the tiny embryo inside—the part that will eventually become the new plant!
Building on their prior knowledge, the students knew that two things are crucial for a seed to "wake up" and start growing: water and warmth. We were able to create these perfect conditions in the classroom and began our observations of germination.
The transformation was truly remarkable:
The first sign of life was the development of the root system, anchoring the plant and starting to absorb water.
Next, the shoot system pushed upward, reaching for the light.
As the roots and shoot grew stronger and longer, the protective seed coat fell away.
Finally, the cotyledons (the first leaves, which contained the seed's stored food) shriveled and fell off.
This meant our young plants were ready to make their own food through photosynthesis and keep growing all on their own!
Ms. Cathy Nsherura
Year 1 had a wonderful time learning all about instruction writing in English. To bring the unit to life, the children worked step-by-step to make their very own sandwiches. They practiced using sequencing words such as first, next, then, and finally, while carefully following each part of the process.
The classroom was full of excitement as the children spread, sprinkled, layered, and assembled their creations—making sure to pay close attention to the order of each action. Not only did they make delicious sandwiches, but they also developed important skills such as following instructions, using bossy (imperative) verbs, and working independently.
In the following lesson, the children used their hands-on experience to write clear, detailed instructions. They worked hard to include, time connective words, and bossy verbs like cut, spread, and mix. Their final pieces were fantastic and showed how much progress they’ve made as budding writers.
Well done, Year 1—great chefs and great authors!
Ms. Nerys Lewis
Writing Instructions Through Sandwich Making!
Maths Passport Day
Early this month, our primary students took part in an exciting event - Maths Passport Day, a celebration of mathematical reasoning and problem solving. Armed with their Maths Passports, pupils travelled from classroom to classroom, with each space representing a different country. At every stop, children completed maths challenges linked to their learning in place value, addition and subtraction.
The event encouraged learners to choose challenges that were “just right” for them, applying their skills and solving problems with confidence. Each station offered opportunities to reason, explore, and think deeply. Each correct answer earned students a sticker, with every sticker counting as a valuable house point - motivating teamwork and friendly competition throughout the morning.
A highlight of the day was a special appearance from Tiny, the White Rose Maths character, who reminded pupils to stay resilient and enjoy the journey of learning.
Ms. Cynthia Awori
This month, our KS1 students learned about Andy Goldsworthy’s landscape art and Carl Warner’s foodscape art. They were fascinated by the creative concepts and showed great enthusiasm, even choosing to explore natural materials during their break times!
Year 1 students worked collaboratively on vegetable printing, demonstrating excellent teamwork and creativity. Year 2 students showcased their growing knowledge and understanding of flowers through thoughtful and detailed work.
Well done to all the students for their curiosity, effort, and engagement throughout these activities.
Ms. Kezban Fernandez
Art