Phoenix Class – Years 5 & 6


Welcome to Phoenix Class

Phoenix Class is taught by Miss Carina Phillips and supported by our dedicated Teaching Assistants: Mrs Rose Alves, Mrs Laura Clarke and Miss Charlotte Barnard. Our class is made up of Year 5 and Year 6 children, creating a positive and collaborative learning environment where pupils can learn from and support one another.

We teach through a wide range of carefully selected high-quality texts, which are rotated over a two-year cycle. This ensures that children experience a rich variety of stories, genres and themes while making meaningful links across the curriculum.

On this page, you will also find our curriculum overview, long-term plans, knowledge organisers and topic webs, giving you a clear picture of the learning taking place throughout the year.

Our Learning Approach

In Phoenix Class, our core texts form the foundation of much of our learning. They inspire children's reading and writing and provide valuable links to our foundation subjects, helping pupils understand how knowledge and ideas connect across different areas of the curriculum.

Our Learning Environment

Phoenix Class is a welcoming, inclusive and ambitious learning environment where every child is encouraged to challenge themselves and celebrate their achievements. We promote curiosity, creativity and resilience, ensuring that all pupils feel valued and supported in their learning journey.

Developing Independence

Children in Upper Key Stage 2 are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their learning. Through pupil leadership opportunities, self-reflection and collaborative problem-solving, we help children develop the confidence and skills needed to become independent learners.

Mathematics

In mathematics, we follow the White Rose Maths scheme, which develops fluency, reasoning and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. A key element of our maths learning is regular times tables practice. Children are encouraged to practise their times tables daily at home, as strong recall skills support success across all areas of mathematics, including fractions, problem-solving and arithmetic.

We look forward to a year of exciting learning, creativity and achievement in Phoenix Class. 

Trips and experiences

We believe trips bring learning to life and create lasting memories. Over a two-year cycle, children take part in a range of enriching visits, including:

  • Print making at Kelmscott Manor
  • Science Museum
  • Exploring the Ashmolean and Pitt Rivers Museums
  • Trips in our local area
  • Warner Brothers Studio Tour

These are rotated across the two years so every child has the opportunity to experience them. In addition, we enjoy a residential trip in the summer. This year, we are looking forward to Youlbury, where children develop independence, teamwork and resilience while having lots of fun.

Homework Expectations

To support and reinforce learning in school, we ask that all children complete the following activities at home:

  • Daily Reading – Children should read every day. We encourage parents and carers to discuss books with their child, helping to develop comprehension, vocabulary and a lifelong love of reading.

  • Daily Times Tables Practice – Regular practice is essential for building rapid recall and confidence in mathematics. Children can use resources such as Times Tables Rock Stars and online games, including Hit the Button.

  • Weekly Spellings – Spelling patterns and word lists are taught throughout the week in class and are assessed each Thursday.

  • Weekly Mathematics Practice – Homework tasks will be linked to current learning in class, providing opportunities to consolidate and apply new mathematical concepts.

  • Topic Homework – Set each term, these creative and engaging projects encourage children to explore curriculum themes in greater depth and showcase their learning in a variety of ways.

We greatly value the support of parents and carers in helping children develop positive learning habits and achieve their full potential.

Working Together

In Phoenix Class, we believe that a strong partnership between home and school is key to ensuring every child achieves their full potential, both academically and personally. By working together, we can support children to become confident, resilient and enthusiastic learners.

We value open communication and encourage parents and carers to share any questions, concerns or successes with us. If you would like to discuss your child's learning or wellbeing, please do not hesitate to speak with Miss Phillips. We are always happy to help and work collaboratively to support your child throughout their time in Phoenix Class.