Year 6 Newsletter - Autumn Term 1 2026

A huge welcome to Year 6! We have had a fantastic start to the year and the children have already impressed us with their enthusiasm, positivity and willingness to challenge themselves. Year 6 is an important year, filled with opportunities for growth, increased independence and memorable experiences before the transition to secondary school. We are looking forward to working closely with you to ensure every child feels happy, confident and successful throughout the year.

Maths -This term we will begin by developing a deep understanding of place value. Rather than simply learning numbers in isolation, we will be exploring how place value helps us understand the world around us. For example, children may investigate: "How many litres of water does the UK use each day?" They will work with large numbers, comparing amounts, rounding figures and understanding the value of digits within six and seven-digit numbers. By placing maths in real-life contexts, children can see why understanding large numbers is an important skill. We will encourage children to explain their thinking, justify their answers and develop confidence when reasoning mathematically.

Reading and English - We have begun reading You Are Awesome by Matthew Syed, a fantastic book that explores resilience, perseverance and the importance of embracing mistakes as part of learning. The messages in this book support our Year 6 mindset perfectly. Throughout the year, we will encourage children to challenge themselves, take risks in their learning and develop the confidence to keep trying when things feel difficult. Later this term, we will begin our class novel Beetle Boy by M.G. Leonard. This exciting adventure story will capture the children's imaginations and inspire a range of reading, writing and creative activities.

Arts meets Literature - We are especially excited about creating a cross-curricular project linked to Beetle Boy. Children will explore the fascinating world of insects through art, using a range of techniques to study pattern, texture, colour and detail. They will create artwork inspired by the incredible beetles featured within the novel while developing observation and sketching skills. Helping your child thrive - Year 6 is an exciting and important year. Alongside preparing for SAT sand secondary school, children are developing independence, resilience and confidence. As parents and teachers, we're on the same team, and working together makes a huge difference. We want every child to feel happy, safe, confident and successful throughout Year 6. Please continue to share any concerns, successes or information that may help us support your child. A strong partner ship between home and school is one of the biggest factors in helping children thrive.

With warm wishes,

The Year 6 Team