GLF Schools

GLF Schools

GLF Schools was founded in 2012 in order to enable the federation of Glyn School (an academy in 2011) and Danetree Junior School. Together, we began our journey to become a MAT of more than 1000 talented staff working with over 10,000 children in 40 schools across 5 regions in southern England.

Our Schools

Banbury Region

Banstead Region

Berkshire & Hampshire Region

Caterham Region

Crawley Region

Didcot Region

Epsom Region

London Boroughs

Redhill Region

Sunbury & Camberley Region

Summer 1

How Is the World Around Us Diverse?

This term, Year 5 will explore the question:
“The way things grow affects the way we live. Support or challenge?”

Through this project, children will investigate plant and animal reproduction, life cycles, and how these processes impact farming and food production. They will also explore how land use has changed over time, where our food comes from, and the importance of sustainability. The project culminates in designing and preparing a seasonal dish for a picnic.

What Will Children Learn?

  • Science:
    • Plant reproduction (sexual and asexual).
    • Life cycles of mammals, amphibians, insects, and birds.
    • Mammal reproduction and gestation periods.
  • History:
    • How farming has changed from prehistoric times to modern day.
  • Geography:
    • Land use changes, natural resources, and global food trade.
  • Design & Technology:
    • Cooking skills and nutrition.
    • Designing and making a seasonal potato salad recipe.

Key Experiences

  • Dissecting flowers to learn about reproduction.
  • Researching life cycles and gestation periods.
  • Investigating local land use and food origins.
  • Tasting seasonal foods and creating a recipe.
  • Preparing and sharing a dish with families.

Why This Matters

This project helps children understand the connections between biology, history, geography, and everyday life. It encourages sustainable thinking and healthy eating while developing practical cooking skills.

How You Can Support at Home

  • Talk about where your food comes from and check labels for origin.
  • Explore seasonal fruit and vegetables together.
  • Share books such as Food for the Future by Mia Wenjen or The Farm That Feeds Us by Nancy Castaldo.
  • Cook simple recipes with your child and discuss healthy eating.

The Final Outcome

By the end of the term, children will:

  • Understand how reproduction and life cycles affect food production.
  • Explain how farming and land use have changed over time.
  • Design and prepare a seasonal potato salad dish for a picnic.
  • Reflect on sustainability and healthy eating.