SaltwoodClass 4
See what Class 4 got up to in 2024-25!
Trip to Kent Life
Last week, Year 4 enjoyed an exciting trip back in time to the Roman era! The children met the fearless Boudica, who told them all about her rebellion against the Romans, and they even came face-to-face with a fierce Roman centurion who put them through their paces in a military drill. They had the chance to make their own leather amulets and learnt all about what Roman soldiers and citizens would have eaten.
The children also met a Celt and discovered what life was like before the Roman invasion. Later in the day, they worked together to build models of Roman roads and aqueducts, learning just how clever Roman engineering really was. Throughout the day, the children impressed everyone with their fantastic knowledge and excellent questions — they truly brought their Roman learning to life!
Quarterhouse Visit
On 10th November, Year 4 set off on an exciting (and rather rainy!) adventure. We began our day with a brisk walk through the woods to Sandling Station, where we met Rochelle, the station master. She spoke to us about the station’s work in the community and how we might be able to support it as part of our Courageous Advocacy project. More on this will be shared very soon!
From there, we caught the train to Folkestone and made our way to the Quarterhouse Theatre. The children were thrilled to meet celebrated local author Sheena Dempsey, best known for her Pablo and Splash series. We enjoyed a fantastic “draw along” session, listened to her talk about the writing process, and asked lots of thoughtful questions. It was very exciting as Sheena introduced her new book, A Roman Holiday—perfect timing as Year 4 are currently studying the Romans!
We were especially lucky that several children had their books signed, and the whole class had the chance to meet Sheena on stage. The children represented the school beautifully throughout the day and showed great resilience hiking through the woods there and back.
Roman Banquet
A Roman Banquet Fit for Emperors!
Year 4 stepped back in time and experienced the grandeur of a true Roman feast. The children reclined just as the Romans once did, while being served a selection of Roman delicacies. There were olives and fish sauce for the brave, along with some rather unusual dishes such as otters' noses and cats' ears! Thankfully, the meal ended on a sweeter note with delicious honey cake, sticky dates and some sugar mice.
As they dined, the children were treated to a wonderful theatrical performance retelling the famous legend of Romulus and Remus, which two of our girls wrote and performed.
Roman Exhibition
The exhibition provided a wonderful opportunity for the children to share their knowledge and expertise with others. We were delighted to be joined by members of the Hythe Historical Group, who came along to speak with the children and admire their hard work.
Our young Roman experts spoke with confidence, enthusiasm and pride. It was a fantastic celebration of learning.
We asked the question, 'Does gas have weight?' Then carried out a series of experiments to find out.
Class Visitor: Mrs Petterson
Class 4 really enjoyed a visit from Mrs Petterson, who came to teach us about leprosy and how people living with the condition are supported in India by charities. Mrs Petterson regularly travels to India to help at a leprosy colony, and it was fascinating to hear about her experiences first hand.
As part of our learning, we have been exploring the Bible story of when Jesus healed the leper, so it was especially interesting to learn how leprosy is understood and treated in the world today. Mrs Petterson helped us to understand both the challenges faced by people with leprosy and the ways in which they can be cared for and supported.
The visit has inspired our class to think about how we might help people affected by leprosy ourselves. We are currently developing some ideas and look forward to sharing our plans when they are ready.
Science - States of Matter
This week, we learned all about the water cycle and even made our own in the classroom using a jet boiler! We watched water evaporate and then condense back into droplets – it was amazing to see it happen right in front of us.
Sandling Station!
As part of the project, the class also created colourful and informative posters all about Sandling, some of these are on display.
This is one of our Courageous Advocacy Projects, trying to brighten up our community.
If you’re passing through, do pop into the waiting room and take a look — we would love for you to see their fantastic work!
Visit to the Glassworks
Working in teams, the children carefully planned their ideas before bringing them to life. They experimented with ramps, tubes, levers and creative structures to build their own moving systems and see how energy could be transferred from one object to another.
It was wonderful to see such fantastic teamwork, problem-solving and perseverance throughout the morning. The children collaborated brilliantly, sharing ideas and supporting one another as they designed and built their models.
Nature Garden
Year 4 have also been taking great care of our feathered and furry friends in the nature garden. We have been making sure the birds and squirrels are well fed, especially during the colder weather, by topping up feeders and leaving out suitable treats. The children have loved watching the visitors arrive and are learning how important it is to look after the wildlife around us.
Healthy Flapjacks
Year 4 have been designing and making healthy flapjacks. We have been learning about digestion and healthy eating, with this in mind the children wrote recipes with as many healthy plant-based ingredients in them as possible. We then made them and cooked them in our new ovens. Delicious! The children were also brilliant at the washing up.
We also had a visit from an expert in plant-based nutrition with a particular focus on how we can get proteins from plants.
Year 4 Trip to Saltwood Castle
Leprosy in India
Along the way, they passed several Roman sites they had studied earlier in the year, bringing their history learning to life. They also enjoyed a visit to Garden House Orchards, where they learnt how to pick cherries and even sampled some fresh fruit before making their way back to school.
It was a fun, rewarding, and challenging experience, and we are incredibly proud of the children's enthusiasm, determination, and generosity in supporting such a worthwhile cause.
