This term, Emperor Class topic is ‘Modern Music’. We’ll be exploring how music has changed over time and learning about different styles and instruments. A highlight of our topic will be discovering the inspiring story of Evelyn Glennie, a world-renowned percussionist who is deaf. Students will learn how Evelyn experiences music through vibrations and how she overcame challenges to become a successful musician. We’ll also be listening to different types of music, experimenting with rhythm and beat, and trying out percussion instruments ourselves. We will be using the sound studio, part of our 'Charanga'  music scheme to create our own music. 

In Maths, our focus is on Time. Students will be learning how to read both analogue and digital clocks, understand daily routines and schedules, and measure time in seconds, minutes, and hours. We’ll use practical activities and visual supports to help build confidence and independence with these  important life skills.

Science lessons this term will cover two key areas: Movement and Joints, and Nutrition and Diet. Students will learn how our bodies move and how joints help us in everyday activities. We’ll also explore the different food groups, what makes a balanced diet, and how animals eat differently.

In PSHE, our theme is Celebrating Difference. We’ll be talking about what makes each person unique, learning about equality and fairness, and exploring the power of kind and positive language. Students will also learn how to recognise and respond to bullying and discrimination. These lessons will help build empathy, self-awareness, and respectful communication.

Our PE sessions will continue at Ebbisham Tennis Centre, where students will develop their tennis skills in a supportive and structured setting. They’ll work on coordination, racket control, and movement around the court, while also practising teamwork, turn-taking, and following rules. Please ensure pupils have the correct kit on this day, as well as PE kits for our in school sessions on Fridays. 

English skills will be developed across all areas of learning this term. As part of our Modern Music topic, we’ll be reading books such as ‘Listen – How Evelyn Glennie, a deaf girl, changed percussion’, along with other music-themed stories. Every Friday, students take part in a Reflection Session, where they look at photos from the week, talk about what they enjoyed, and choose one photo to write about. This activity helps them practise descriptive writing, punctuation, and sentence structure, while also encouraging self-expression. We will also be looking at non-fiction books about modern music. 

Our Enterprise Projects will continue this term, giving students the opportunity to develop vocational and life skills. They’ll help run the Thursday Café, taking on roles such as serving, setting up, and handling money. This term we will be preparing delicious bacon, lettuce and tomato baguettes for the staff to enjoy! Students will also design and create handmade items to sell in the lead-up to Christmas.

As we approach the festive season, we have lots of enjoyable activities planned, including Christmas crafts, seasonal cooking, and the Christmas show at the end of term. We’re really looking forward to an exciting few weeks ahead.

Mary and the Emperor Team