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    Islands Reflect & Review

    8 May 2026 (by Stefan Mitsis (Stefan))

    From posters, to fractions, to leaf rubbing — what an amazing week of learning we have had in Islands! The children have shown fantastic creativity, curiosity, and enthusiasm across all areas of the curriculum.

    In English, we have continued our learning linked to The Jolly Postman. The children explored the features of persuasive posters, thinking carefully about how writers encourage people to buy a product or take interest in something. They experimented with persuasive language, exciting adjectives, and catchy phrases to make their posters engaging and convincing.

    In Sumatra, the children have also begun creating a story map for Goldilocks and the Three Bears. They worked hard to sequence the story correctly, identify the key events, and use actions and pictures to help retell it confidently. This has supported the children’s understanding of story structure and will help them when they begin creating and writing their own narratives inspired by familiar tales.

    In topic, we have had a wonderful focus on Art. The children explored the natural environment around them, collecting leaves, flowers, bark, and other natural materials to use in their artwork. They experimented with printing techniques, creating patterns and textures by pressing materials onto different types of paper and into clay. The children enjoyed observing the shapes and details left behind and discussing how artists can use nature as inspiration. Their creativity and willingness to experiment have been fantastic to see.

    Next week, the children will continue developing their printing skills by creating their own relief prints. They will explore making impressions in plasticine and creating deeper recesses in foam boards to produce more detailed printed designs. This will help them understand how artists use texture, pressure, and repeated patterns to create different effects in printmaking.

    In music, we have continued practising our songs from Hansel and Gretel. The children are becoming much more confident with the lyrics, melodies, and actions, and it has been lovely to hear their singing becoming stronger each week. Please continue encouraging your child to practise the songs at home — many of the songs can be found on YouTube, and regular practice really helps build confidence ready for performing.

    Finally, we are currently in need of junk modelling materials to support our topic learning and creative projects. Items such as small boxes, tubes, cartons, clean containers, and other recyclable materials would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your continued support!