Year 5 

Spotlight on Learning

Dear Bethany Families,

Students are settling well into the Bethany learning space as we begin the year together. Our focus during these early weeks has been on revising and reinforcing new routines, building independence, and living out The St Thomas Way through respectful, safe, and responsible behaviours. 

The children are showing a positive approach to learning as they adjust to Year 5 expectations, and we look forward to a year filled with growth, learning, and collaboration.

Our learning this week: 

Religious Education: 

In Religious Education, students are learning about the significance of our community name, Bethany. Through scripture and discussion, we are exploring Bethany as a place of friendship, miracles, and faith.

English

This week in English, students began reading the novel War Horse. As we explore the text, students are learning about key features of narrative, including character, setting, and plot. We are also focusing on figurative language and how authors use descriptive techniques to create vivid images for the reader. During reading, students are practising using appropriate pauses to improve fluency, expression, and understanding of the text.

Mathematics 

In Mathematics, students are learning how to identify and generate multiples of a number by using the distributive property. They are practising breaking numbers apart and recombining them to form multiples efficiently, helping them deepen their understanding of number relationships. Students will demonstrate their learning by forming multiples and explaining the strategies they use.

Integrated Studies 

In Integrated Studies, Year 5 students are learning to identify and explore the natural and human characteristics of different places. They are examining natural features such as landforms and vegetation, as well as human features including buildings, roads, and community spaces. Students are also describing what makes a place unique, helping them develop a deeper understanding of how people and environments interact.

Social Emotional Learning: 

In Social and Emotional Learning, students are focusing on building positive relationships and a strong sense of belonging within their learning community. They are developing skills to identify emotions, show empathy, and work respectfully with others. Through discussions and classroom activities, students are learning strategies to manage challenges, communicate effectively, and support one another in line with The St Thomas Way.

Important Reminders: 

If you have not already signed and returned the ICT Agreement, we kindly ask that this be completed as soon as possible to allow students to use digital technology at school.

Please remember to provide cutlery from home if required for your child’s lunch.

TERM 1 KEY DATES — 2026

• Tuesday 17 February - Shrove Tuesday
• Wednesday 18 February - Ash Wednesday   Start of Lent
• Thursday 19 February - Open Afternoon & Family Catch‑Up   4:30pm – 6:30pm
• Monday 16 March Athletics Day at Casey Fields   Years 3, 4, 5 and 6
• Monday 9 March - Public Holiday — School Closed

• Thursday 2 April - Holy Thursday — Last Day of Term 1

   

  TERM 2 START DATE

• Tuesday 21 April — First Day for Students

• Contact Us 

bethany@cranbourneeast.catholic.edu.au  OR