Who is responsible for the animals? 

CST: Rights and Responsibilities.

Gospel Virtues: Attentive and Discerning.

British Values: The Rule of Law.

This half term in Reception, the children will embark on an exciting adventure into the world of animals and habitats through our big question: “Who is responsible for the animals?” 

Through stories, exploration, investigation and creative learning experiences, the children will discover that animals live in many different environments around the world and that each habitat is suited to the needs of the animals that live there. They will learn that humans have an important responsibility to care for God’s creation and protect the animals and habitats He has given us. 

Through the Catholic Social Teaching theme of Rights and Responsibilities, the children will begin to understand that all living things are precious and deserve care, kindness and respect. We will encourage the children to think about how our actions can help or harm animals and their homes, and how we can become caring stewards of the world around us. 

Throughout the half term, the children will become Geographers as they explore maps, globes and photographs to learn about different habitats around the world, including jungles, forests and polar regions. They will compare hot and cold environments, discover where different animals live, and learn why animals need specific habitats to survive. Through outdoor adventures, local environment walks and role play, the children will begin to understand how weather and seasons can change the natural world around us. 

They will become Scientists and Explorers as they investigate the changing seasons and explore the natural world using their senses. They will experiment with natural materials, investigate camouflage, explore textures and environments, and think about how animals adapt to survive in different habitats. Through den building, sand investigations and outdoor exploration, the children will develop curiosity, questioning skills and a love of discovery. 

They will also become Artists, Designers and Creators, using a range of materials, the children will create jungle artwork, textured collages, animal masks and 3D animal sculptures inspired by the stories and habitats we explore. They will experiment with clay, playdough and sculpture techniques to design and create their own animals and environments. The children will also use colour, texture and pattern to represent different habitats and seasons. 

The children will become Musicians and Performers as they listen to music from different cultures and communities and explore how music and songs can tell stories and express feelings. They will create animal sound patterns using percussion instruments, compose simple class songs and perform dances inspired by animals and journeys. Through singing, movement and performance, the children will develop confidence, rhythm and creativity. 

The children will develop their speaking and listening skills through role play, discussions and collaborative learning. They will talk about how animals communicate, describe habitats and share their own ideas about how we can care for living things. As they work together, the children will learn the importance of kindness, teamwork and responsibility for the world God created for us all. 

We are looking forward to a wonderful half term full of imagination, exploration and discovery as we learn how we can all play our part in caring for animals and the world around us.