Years 5 & 6
In Year 5 pupils are now regarded as part of one of the older year groups in the school.
They are encouraged to not only take more responsibility for planning both their school work, homework and school day activities but also have a caring and protective attitude to the younger pupils in the school. Year 5 participate closely with Year 6 in a variety of activities such as sports match fixtures, drama and music productions, assemblies and residential trips.
A Structured Timetable
Children in Year 5 begin to assume more responsibility for their own learning. As well as a formal structured timetable with lessons of Maths and English leading the way, children continue to receive daily homework that is to be completed ready for the next day. Other core curriculum subjects include French, Design and Technology (DT), Art, History, Geography, Science, Outdoor Learning & Sustainability and RE, Life Skills, Current Affairs, PSHE and Verbal Reasoning.
In Year 5, children should be reading independently on a daily basis. However, reading aloud to parents every day is also strongly recommended. The school also provides a recommended reading list to parents of books suitable by year group and reading ability. Prep at the end of the day is 30 minutes and allows for consolidation of learning.
Academic Purpose
Year 6 is an exciting year as the children enter the top of the school, becoming role models and mentors for the younger children. The introduction of a school blazer for our Year 6 children creates an air of expectation and is the signpost for clear academic purpose. There is one Prep each evening providing dedicated time for the children to work independently towards their 11+ entrance exams.
In the summer the year group have the chance to be part of the play or musical which usually involves the entire year group. There is also a residential French Trip and also an Activity Week allowing long lasting memories to be made.
Admission to Senior Schools
Year 6 is an important year for the admission processes into senior schools. Preparation for the 11+ entrance exams, ISEB Pre-Tests and interviews can be a potentially stressful time for the children and parents and our main objective is to navigate our way through it without adding any undue pressure onto young shoulders. With the children we talk positively about the entrance exams and focus their minds on learning behaviours, taking responsibility for themselves and their application and developing their resilience so they can learn from mistakes. Our bi annual Exam Weeks ensures that the children have the exam strategies and study skills to thrive in the 11+ arena.
Beyond Barfield
Pupils embark on exciting new journeys at the end of Year 6, heading to a diverse range of top senior schools, both day and boarding.
Come and visit us!
Barfield is a warm, caring, family-orientated school, where happy and supported children go on to achieve great things.
