Our question this half term is “Why does everyone's vocation matter, no matter what they do?” Children will be exploring this through the Catholic Social Teaching lens of Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers across the curriculum.
In History, we will be historians, investigating the topic "What is a monarch?" We will delve into the past to understand what a ruler is, how monarchs have ruled over time and what qualities make a good and fair ruler. Children will build on their historical skills by exploring significant people from the past; learning about the role and responsibilities of a ruler; considering how leaders’ choices affect others and comparing different rulers and forming opinions about what makes an effective monarch.
Children will be encouraged to ask questions, examine historical evidence, and share their ideas as they reflect on how leadership has changed over time and the impact it has had on people’s lives.
As part of our learning, children will consider the idea that everyone has a role to play in society, whether they are a ruler, a worker, or a member of the community. They will explore how different jobs and responsibilities contribute to the common good and why every vocation matters, regardless of status or power.
Through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching, children will understand that all work has value and dignity; every person deserves to be treated with respect and fairness; God values each person and the work they do and that we are called to respect and appreciate the contributions of others. Children will reflect on how Jesus showed respect and love to all people, especially those whose work or voices were often overlooked, and how we are encouraged to do the same today.
At the end of the half term, children will bring their learning together to explain why everyone’s vocation matters; what makes a good ruler and a good leader; how people’s roles and work help society function and how we can show respect and gratitude for the work others do.
Throughout this unit, children will be encouraged to share their ideas, ask thoughtful questions and make connections to their own lives, families and communities—developing curious minds and embedding their ‘golden nuggets’ of learning into their long‑term memory.