Netherfield CE Primary School

Maafa

How has the story of Black people in Britain changed from Ancient African kingdoms to modern times?

This topic explores the story of Black people from the great Ancient African kingdoms to modern Britain. Children will learn about African achievements before enslavement, the impact of the transatlantic slave trade and the changing experiences and contributions of Black people in Britain over time. They will study the impact of the kingdom of Benin, British involvement in the slave trade, life on a Caribbean plantation and abolition of slavery.

Alongside their learning, pupils will create an art piece inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat and Chris Ofili, using collage and pastels. They will also research, design and make a dish from an African culture, deepening their understanding of African heritage through practical, creative work.

Frozen Kingdoms

How do the unique features of the polar regions affect life there and how are they changing?

In this topic, pupils will explore the remarkable landscapes of the Arctic and Antarctic and discover how the polar regions’ extreme climate, ice-covered terrain and remote location affect the people, animals and plants that live there. They will develop their geographical skills by mapping out Shackleton’s journeys to both the Arctic and Antarctic, deepening their understanding of exploration, location and the challenges of polar travel.

Children will also investigate the environmental changes taking place in the polar regions and consider why these changes may be happening, linking their learning to wider issues around climate and human impact. Alongside their geography work, pupils will study Kenojuak Ashevak’s Enchanted Owl and respond creatively through printing and soap carving.

Britain at War

What was the significance of the First World War? How did WWII change Britain?

In this topic, pupils will explore two major turning points in British history and consider the impact of the First and Second World Wars on British culture, society and everyday life. They will investigate why these conflicts were so significant, how Britain changed as a result, and what long-term effects the wars had on the country and its people.

Using their geographical skills, children will locate and name key countries of the Allied and Axis powers, as well as major cities involved in both world wars. As part of their design and technology learning, pupils will research, design and make an Anderson Shelter, using electrical systems to add lights and buzzers to their models.