Year 5

Class 5H:

A very warm welcome to Year 5! We have already had a fantastic start to the school year, and I have been incredibly impressed by the children’s behaviour, enthusiasm and excellent work ethic. They have settled quickly into their new class routines and are already showing a real eagerness to learn, which has made the beginning of the year a pleasure.

For those who may not know me, I have been teaching at St John Vianney’s for 13 years and have had the privilege of teaching children from Year 2 right through to Year 6. For the last few years, I have been teaching in Year 2, so I am very much looking forward to returning to Upper Key Stage 2 and helping prepare the children for the exciting challenges that lie ahead in Year 6.

Alongside my teaching role, I am the school’s Computing Lead and ECO Lead, and I also support our digital development across the school. Throughout the year, we will be exploring exciting topics linked to technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), online safety and responsible digital citizenship. We will also continue to develop our understanding of environmental issues through ECO awareness and stewardship, encouraging the children to think about how they can care for God’s world and make a positive difference within their community.

In Year 5, I want to develop the children into confident thinkers and orators. Rather than always being given the answers, the children will be encouraged to solve problems, think critically and work things out for themselves. Just as importantly, they will have opportunities to explain their thinking, discuss their ideas and confidently communicate their findings to others. These are valuable skills that will support them across the curriculum and beyond.

Our class ethos is simple: work hard, learn lots and have fun! This fits perfectly with our school’s mission of being sincere, joyful and virtuous in all that we do. We will celebrate success, support one another through challenges and strive to become the very best versions of ourselves.

We also have some exciting events to look forward to this year. In February, we will be heading on a residential visit to the Anderton Centre near Chorley, which everyone already seems very excited about. Further details will be shared in the coming months. We are also hoping to arrange another visit to Samlesbury Hall, following the success of previous trips, with more information to follow later in the year.

I am thoroughly looking forward to the year ahead and to seeing all of the children grow in confidence, knowledge and independence. Together, I know we are going to have a fantastic Year 5!

Mr Horton

Class 5OK:

In my new class, I bring 16 years of teaching experience to the table, with a primary focus on Key Stage 2 education. Throughout my career, I have developed a deep passion for fostering children’s curiosity about the world around them, especially in the realm of history. As the designated History Subject Lead, I am committed to creating an environment where students are not only encouraged to ask questions but also empowered to seek answers through exploration and discovery. 

My enthusiasm for igniting the spark of historical inquiry in young minds is matched only by my interest in the arts, particularly drawing, which I believe complements and enriches the learning experience. Additionally, as an avid supporter of Blackpool FC with a cherished season ticket, I understand the importance of team spirit, dedication, and perseverance, values that I aim to instill in my students. 

Through a combination of my teaching experience, passion for inquiry-based learning, and personal interests, I aspire to create a calm, engaging, and welcoming classroom where every child is encouraged to succeed and flourish. One of my personal joys lies in the realm of physical education, where I relish all aspects, particularly dance. I firmly believe that physical activity not only contributes to a healthy lifestyle but also plays a vital role in a child’s holistic development. Whether it’s encouraging teamwork during a lively game of football or fostering self-expression through creative dance routines, I am dedicated to helping students discover the joy of movement. 

Within my classroom, I am committed to cultivating a positive atmosphere where students feel comfortable expressing themselves, both physically and academically. My goal is to provide a nurturing space where children can thrive academically, artistically, and athletically, ultimately helping them become well-rounded individuals prepared to face the challenges of the world beyond the classroom. Together, we will embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and achievement, and I am excited to see the bright futures that lie ahead for each one of my children.