This page highlights how Year 5 pupils explore environmental themes across the curriculum through a range of subjects and learning experiences.

Autumn 2 - DT (Healthy Eating; Sustainable Foods)

In this lesson, Year 5 pupils explored the concept of seasonality and how food is grown and harvested at different times of the year. They learnt about the benefits of eating seasonal produce, including its positive impact on the environment, and compared foods available across each season. Pupils applied their understanding by identifying seasonal foods and discussing the advantages and disadvantages of seasonal eating, developing awareness of sustainable and healthy food choices.

Eco-Schools Topics:

• Healthy Living
• Global Citizenship

Spring 1 – Guided Reading (Rainforests / Environmental Awareness)

During Spring 1, pupils explored a range of rainforest-themed texts, including a poem and an information leaflet, to develop their comprehension skills. They learned about biodiversity, animal adaptations, and the impact of deforestation, making links between the texts and real-world environmental issues. Pupils demonstrated their understanding through annotations, questioning, and written responses, developing awareness of the importance of protecting ecosystems.

Eco-Schools Topics:

• Biodiversity
• Global Citizenship

Spring 2 – Science (Learning for a Sustainable Future)

During British Science Week, pupils explored how electric vehicles work and their role in reducing pollution and supporting a more sustainable future. They investigated simple circuits and considered how energy is used to power vehicles. Pupils then designed their own eco-friendly concept cars, incorporating features such as reduced emissions and efficiency, while also learning about green jobs linked to sustainable transport.

Eco-Schools Topics:

• Transport
• Energy
• Global Citizenship  

Spring 2 – PSHE (Mental Health and Wellbeing)

During Spring 2, pupils explored the importance of mental health and wellbeing, focusing on the role of play in supporting a healthy mind. Through discussion and reflection, pupils shared their thoughts on how play can help reduce stress, build confidence, develop friendships and support happiness.

Pupils worked collaboratively to express their ideas, considering different viewpoints and recognising that wellbeing can affect people in different ways. They also applied their learning by designing their own playground games, thinking about fairness, teamwork and inclusion.

By the end of the unit, pupils understood that play is an important part of maintaining mental wellbeing and that balance between play, rest and learning is key.

Eco-Schools Topics:

• Healthy Living
• Global Citizenship 

Spring 2– Geography P4C (Exploring Deforestation and the Amazon Rainforest)

Pupils explored the impact of human activity on the Amazon rainforest through a Philosophy for Children (P4C) enquiry. Using a stimulus image of deforestation, they discussed key questions such as “Do we own the Earth or do we just live on it?” and considered different viewpoints about the use of natural resources.

Through structured debate, pupils reflected on issues including sustainability, responsibility and the balance between human needs and protecting nature. They developed their speaking and listening skills by building on each other’s ideas and justifying their opinions. By the end of the session, pupils demonstrated a deeper understanding of the consequences of deforestation and the importance of caring for the environment.

Eco-Schools Topics:

• Biodiversity
• Global Citizenship