Welcome to Oak Class (Y3/4)

The class teachers are Mrs Luckett and Mrs Waterman.

Mrs Slack is our teaching assistant every morning. 

Our curriculum theme this term is:

Explore!

Our enquiry question for this term is "How do mountains and volcanoes shape our world and inspire explorers?"

The main subject of our project is geography, as the children embark on an exciting journey to explore mountains and volcanoes. We will begin with Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak at 8,848 metres, studying photographs to explore its physical geography and the unique environment at the top of the world. Pupils will then investigate major continental mountain ranges, study the UK’s highest peaks, and focus on Snowdon as a case study, developing map skills using Ordnance Survey maps.

Along the way, children will discover how mountains are formed, explore volcanoes and their eruptions, and learn why people live near them despite the risks. They will also consider the impact of human activity on these environments and explore ways to protect them, linking their learning to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action, which promotes action to combat climate change and protect mountain ecosystems.

They will consider the following:

• Where in the world do the tallest mountains live, and how can we find them?
• What can we learn about a mountain environment by studying photographs?
• Why don’t people live near the top of Mount Everest?
• What makes a mountain a mountain?
• How can I use a map to find features on Snowdon?
• How are mountains formed, and what are the main types of mountains?
• What are the main types of volcano, and what are their features?
• Why do people live near volcanoes, despite the dangers?
• What are the risks of living near volcanoes, and how do people manage them?
• How can we help our wonderful world?

We will be reading the following key texts for English:

The Abominables by Eva Ibbotson and Escape from Pompeii by Christina Balit, linking adventure and exploration to our mountain landscapes.

Throughout our project, we will explore concepts such as adversity, resilience, belief, and care for the environment.

The school treasures we are focusing on are: aspiration and courage.

Our United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) this term is – Sustainable cities and communities (11): Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.  

Enhancement subjects

Science: Rocks and Soils

RE: How do festivals and worship show what matters to a Muslim?

PSHE: Me and My Relationships; Rights and Respect

Computing: Creating Media: Website design; Online Safety

Music: Compositions (Instrumental lessons inspired by mountains)

Art: Mountain Views

Design & Technology: Erupting Volcanoes

PE: Real PE and Tennis

MFL: Spanish

PE is on a Wednesday and a Thursday this term. Children are to come to school wearing their PE kits on these days. 

Educational visits this term:

Magna Science Adventure Centre – Tuesday 3rd February 2026

There will be information, updates and photos posted on Class Dojo as well as individual messages so please check your app regularly. Please message me or email the school office if you have any questions.

Links to other resources