I’m delighted to welcome you and your child to Year 6—a year full of exciting learning, personal growth, and preparation for the next big step: secondary school. I’m really looking forward to working closely with you to ensure your child has a happy, successful, and memorable final year at primary school.

In Year 6, we are very lucky to be supported by Mrs North and Mrs Overfield, who work alongside the children to help them thrive both academically and emotionally.

Below is some key information to help you support your child throughout the year. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me—either by email at e.pennington@slyne-with-hest.lancs.sch.uk or by speaking to me at the end of the school day.

📚 Homework & Learning at Home

• English & Maths: Weekly tasks will be set and due the following week. These reinforce classroom learning and help build independence. Please encourage your child to complete their homework and ask for help if needed.
• Reading: Regular reading at home is essential. Please listen to your child read aloud and discuss what they’ve read. They should bring their reading book to school daily and choose new books independently from our class library.
• Spelling: Weekly spelling lists will be sent home and tested the following week. Children can practise using the Spelling Shed app. Mastery of Year 5/6 statutory spellings is especially important for SATs and writing assessments.
• Times Tables: Quick recall of multiplication and division facts is vital. Children should regularly use Times Tables Rockstars to practise, especially any tables they’re less confident with.

🌟 Behaviour & Expectations

As the oldest children in the school, Year 6 pupils are expected to set a positive example for others. We place a strong emphasis on:

• Respect: For adults, peers, and the school environment
• Responsibility: Taking ownership of learning, behaviour, and belongings
• Kindness & Cooperation: Supporting one another and working as a team
• Pride: In their work, appearance, and role as school leaders

We will continue to follow the school’s behaviour policy and celebrate positive choices. Your support in reinforcing these expectations at home is greatly appreciated.

🎭 Enrichment Opportunities

Year 6 is not just about hard work—it’s also about making memories! Throughout the year, your child will have the chance to take part in:

• Residential trips that build independence, teamwork, and confidence
• Sporting events and competitions with other schools
• School productions and performances, including our end-of-year show
• Leadership roles, such as buddies, monitors, and ambassadors
• Creative projects and themed days that bring learning to life

These experiences are designed to help your child grow in confidence and enjoy their final year to the fullest.

🧠 SATs & Secondary School Preparation

• SATs: These take place in May and assess your child’s progress in reading, maths, and grammar. We will prepare thoroughly in school, and I’ll keep you informed about how you can support at home.
• Booster Sessions: Some children may be invited to attend small group sessions to support their learning. These are designed to build confidence and close any gaps.
• Transition to Secondary School: We’ll support your child with this important step through discussions, visits, and activities that help them feel confident and ready for the move.

🏃 General Reminders

• PE Days: Tuesday and Friday. Please send your child to school in their PE kit on these days (trainers, white T-shirt, black shorts or tracksuit bottoms, and their school jumper).
• Water Bottles: Please ensure your child brings a clearly named water bottle each day. These will be sent home daily for cleaning and refilling.
• Uniform: Children are expected to wear the correct school uniform each day, including appropriate footwear. Please ensure all items are clearly labelled.

😊 Supporting Wellbeing

Year 6 can be a time of mixed emotions. We place a strong emphasis on wellbeing and emotional resilience. Please let me know if your child is feeling anxious or needs extra support—we’re here to help.

Best wishes

Mrs Pennington