This half term, our big question is: “What are all the things people need to live and grow?” Children will explore this through the Catholic Social Teaching principle of Rights and Responsibilities, helping them to understand that everyone has basic needs, and we all have a role in caring for one another and the world around us.
Through this lens, children will learn that every person has the right to essentials such as food, shelter, education, and safety, and that with these rights come responsibilities—to look after others, to make fair choices, and to contribute positively to their communities. They will reflect on how Jesus taught us to care for others, particularly those in need, and how we can follow this example in our own lives.
In Geography, children will become geographers as they explore the question: “What is it like to live by the coast?” They will learn about coastal environments, including features such as beaches, cliffs, and the sea. Children will compare coastal areas with where we live, thinking about similarities and differences in lifestyle, jobs, weather, and surroundings.
They will also consider how living by the coast can affect the way people live and work, exploring topics such as fishing, tourism, and coastal safety. Through this, children will begin to understand how people depend on their environment and how it meets their basic needs.
As part of their learning, children will think about what all people need to live and grow—not just physical needs like food and water, but also love, care, and a safe environment. They will explore how communities work together to ensure people’s needs are met and how we all share responsibility for looking after each other and the world we live in.
Throughout the unit, children will be encouraged to ask questions, share their ideas, and make connections to their own lives. This will help them develop confidence, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of how they can make a positive difference in the world.