Reception writing 
In Reception, the children are beginning to develop their writing skills by using dictated sentences and applying their RWInc (Read Write Inc.) phonics knowledge to write short phrases. They listen carefully to simple sentences, repeat them, and then use their sounds to write the words independently. The children are learning to segment sounds, form letters correctly, and build confidence in their early writing. It is wonderful to see them using their phonics skills to express their ideas and take their first steps as writers.

Forest school! 
Class One had an exciting day at Forest School when they discovered tiny tadpoles swimming in a shallow pond. The children watched carefully as the tadpoles wriggled through the water, noticing their long tails and smooth bodies. They learned that tadpoles are baby frogs and will slowly grow legs and change as they get older. Everyone was very gentle and respectful of the creatures, making sure not to disturb their habitat. It was a fun and fascinating way to learn about nature and life cycles outdoors.

Bridge making
In Year One science, the children explored different materials and their properties by becoming young engineers. They investigated items like paper, cardboard, plastic, and wood, discussing which were strong, flexible, or waterproof. Using their ideas, they worked in teams to design and build small bridges, carefully choosing materials they thought would be the strongest. Once their bridges were complete, they tested them by adding weights to see how much they could hold. The children loved experimenting and learning from what worked well and what needed improving, developing their problem-solving skills along the way.

Silver Birch Forests
We started the term by decorating the covers of our new sketchbooks. We used masking tape to mark out the trees and then used blue and yellow to mix the greens we used to paint around the trees. Once we removed the masking tape, we used twigs foraged from forest school to add the splits in the bark. The reception children did this activity on large sheets of paper which will be used as a background for the 3D birds we will be creating later in the term.

Making Visual Notes
We made visual notes from videos and still images of various birds. Children made these quick illustrations using either soft pencils, ink and oil pastels.

Number Logs
It has been such a joy to take all of our maths outside this week. We enjoyed counting the marbles into the logs and then adding corresponding representations.

Number Stories
We used our new gutter roads and number frame vehicles to tell number stories. Some of our vehicles went to Italy for a wedding where they dropped off a few passengers. The children discussed the maths behind this, e.g. there were 5 passengers on board, 2 got off and then there were 3 left. 

Jack's Farm Shop
During their busy learning time, the class have loved acting as Jack (from Jack and the Beanstalk, of course!) selling produce at his farm shop. We have loved seeing such rich language in this area as children role play as farmer and customer. 

Spring activities
We have also had a wealth of Spring themed activities inside and outside of the classroom. Including this finger gym activity where children have been using the Spring rollers to create a picture background and then various stampers to create the foreground. 

Jack and the Beanstalk Small World Play
The class have loved acting out the story of Jack and the Beanstalk in our small world area. The play starts in Jack's farm (as seen above) and then travels up the beanstalk to the castle in the (very fluffy!) clouds. 

Science - materials 
Year 1 and Reception children enjoyed a hands-on learning experience by creating boats using a variety of materials such as paper, foil, plastic, and recycled items. Through this fun activity, the children explored their science learning about different materials and discussed which ones might be strong, light, or waterproof.

After building their boats, the children tested them in water to see whether they would float or sink, making predictions beforehand and observing the results carefully. This practical investigation helped develop their curiosity, problem-solving skills, and understanding of materials in an engaging and age-appropriate way.

Art exhibition 
Harrowbarrow School proudly hosted a vibrant art exhibition celebrating the creativity and talent of pupils across the whole school. The exhibition showcased an impressive range of artwork from every year group, highlighting different techniques, styles, and inspirations developed throughout the year. From bold paintings and detailed drawings to imaginative sculptures and mixed-media pieces, each display reflected the children's enthusiasm and individuality. Families and visitors enjoyed walking through the exhibition, seeing how artistic skills progress across the school and appreciating the hard work and pride pupils take in their creations. The event was a wonderful celebration of creativity and a true reflection of the school's commitment to nurturing the arts.

Swimming 
We had a fantastic first swimming session this week at Launceston pool. Please make sure children come with a pair of goggles as this really aids the swimming process! 

We have another 4 weeks of swimming so please make sure children come with their swim kits every Friday morning. 

Reception Maths Fun!
Our Reception children have been exploring greater than and fewer than using the hungry crocodile! They did a great job comparing numbers and showing which side the crocodile should chomp. Lots of smiles and super learning!

Early Morning Learning
Our Reception children have been busy making paper clip chains to strengthen their fine motor skills as part of their early morning work - great for little hands and growing confidence! Meanwhile, Year 1 have been working hard on number bonds to 20, then challenging themselves with One Minute Maths to sharpen their arithmetic skills. A fantastic start to the day for everyone!

Science Investigation Time! 
The children have been busy taking part in a science experiment investigating which objects float or sink. We were set a challenge: the Tamar Bridge has collapsed and we need to build a boat for Mr O-T to get home! The children explored different materials, made predictions, and tested their ideas to see what would work best. Lots of excitement, brilliant thinking, and fantastic teamwork - what great scientists! 

Writing in reception
We have been very busy writing our shopping lists. We carefully use our scissor skills to write cvc words to create a list! Some fantastic fine motor skills! 

Number work
We have been looking at composition and ordering through a variety of activities. Charlotte very carefully organises the numbers in the correct order and matches with the unifix. 

Dragon facts 
We have been collecting facts about dragons and Rosanna has compiled some fantastic sentences. What beautiful letter formation and presentation!