Celebrations- What do we celebrate? 

Family and Community

Gospel Virtues: Learned and Wise 

British Values: Democracy 

This half term, our topic question is “What do we celebrate?” We will explore this through the Catholic Social Teaching theme family and community, learning how we can celebrate the special moments, people, and traditions that bring us joy. 

In Understanding the World, we will learn about the different celebrations that take place across the world at this time of year for people of different faiths and cultures. Through class discussions, photographs, and storytelling, the children will explore what these celebrations look like and why they are important. 

As scientists, the children will explore the changing seasons, noticing how God’s creation changes as we move from autumn to winter. We will make observations during Forest School, take part in nature walks, and create observational drawings and paintings to show what we discover about the natural world around us. 

As geographers, we will continue to explore different places around the world with Bear, comparing environments and noticing how they are the same or different. The children will use their outdoor learning experiences and creative artwork to develop curiosity and appreciation for the beautiful diversity of our world. 

As historians, we will be peeking into the past to think about our own personal histories. The children will explore “My Life” timelines, learning how to organise events in order and celebrate achievements from their own lives. This will help them begin to understand how time passes and how we can remember and honour special moments from the past. 

As artists, we will explore painting and mixed media, using our creativity to express celebration and thankfulness. The children will experiment with finger painting, natural resource painting, and painting to music. Together, we will also create a collaborative artwork to celebrate our topic of “What do we celebrate?” 

To help us with all our wonderful learning, we will enjoy these beautiful books: 

• Rama and Sita – discovering the story of Diwali through its colourful celebrations. 

• Greta and the Giants – learning about caring for God’s earth and standing up for what is right. 

• When Willy Went to the Wedding – a joyful story about family celebrations and togetherness. 

• Bear’s Special Birthday – a heart-warming tale of kindness and celebration. 

• Twas the Night Before Christmas – a classic story of excitement, joy, and Christmas wonder. 

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By the end of the term, the children will be able to talk about different celebrations and traditions that we share with our family and community and how each special occasion helps us to show love, gratitude, and joy as part of God’s family.