Year 4 - Science: Volume & Amplitude
In Year 4, we are currently studying sound through our science lessons. This week, we were investigating the connection between amplitude and volume. We learned that volume is the loudness of sound and is measured in decibels, and that amplitude measures the height of the sound waves. After playing some digital simulations, we saw that when we increased the volume, the height of the sound waves increased. We then conducted an investigation into whether the height from which an object is dropped would affect the volume of the sound created on impact with the base. The children dropped a marble onto a drum from increasing heights and used a data logger to measure the volume in decibels. They recorded their results and then presented them in a line graph ready to discuss their findings.
Year 4 - PE: Sprint and Relay
This week in athletics, the Year 4 class applied the sprinting skills they have learned and developed new skills for taking part in relay races. They began with an aerobic warm up and played chase games to develop correct arm positioning for successful baton exchange. This was followed by some practice with batons, transferring them from one team mate to another as smoothly and seamlessly as possible. Their aim was to be able to pass and receive a baton whilst moving. Once the children had had a chance to develop this skill, they put it into practice through team races. They had all improved dramatically by the end of the lesson.
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Year 4 - Linking Schools: Zoom Meeting
We had the great pleasure of working with our link class at St Matthew’s again this week, on a Zoom call. During this session, we played Rock, Paper, Scissors and Acts of Kindness Charades. Both classes were very good at guessing the acts of kindness. We also listened to a retelling of the Starfish Story and joined in with the actions. The children thoroughly enjoyed the session and they are looking forward to our final preparations before visiting St Matthew’s in June.
Year 6 Junior Jam - French
This week in French, year 6 have been practising adjectives to express the reasons for their interest in a particular job. The children thought about which jobs they would/would not like to do in the future, using adjectives to explain why. They also had fun playing a few class games, trying to describe and guess each other's jobs.
Year 3- The Big Debate Club- Is it better to preserve traditions or embrace progress?
In class today, we took part in the Big Debate Club to discuss whether it is better to preserve traditions or embrace progress. Led by Harry and Charlie, the session was a fantastic showcase of oracy skills, with everyone focusing on active listening and critical thinking to weigh up both sides of the argument. The discussion explored how traditions provide us with a vital sense of identity and stability, while progress allows us to evolve and fix the mistakes of the past. We also celebrated our success in raising £163 for the big bake sale.
Year 3- French- Learning about the French Traditions
In French class today, Year 3 focused on revising key questions and developing retrieval skills through a match-up task. The children explored the cultural side of the language by learning about famous traditions and festivals in various French-speaking countries, discussing why the French language is so globally significant.
Year 2 - English and Oracy - Generating speech for characters
In Year 2, we have been working in talk partners to generate speech between Kevin The Koala and The Woodpecker. We had to speak clearly and listen carefully to create the conversation.
Year 2 - Art - Creating Collages
In Art, Year 2 have been creating collages using the textured paint that we mixed last week.
Kids with Bricks Lego Club
This week's Kids with Bricks Lego Club theme was 'Hot or Cold'. We watched our weekly video, all about the hottest and coldest places around the world. We were tasked with creating a vehicle or creature that is suited to extreme temperatures. A special well done to our Builders of the Week: Elsie and Vienna!
Year 4 Tennis Winners
🏆 SMALL BUT MIGHTY! 🏆 Huge congratulations to our Year 4 Tennis Team for winning the BWD competition at Blackburn Northern Tennis Club! 🎾🥇 Mrs. Ham is incredibly proud of the team's determination and fantastic sportsmanship. You played with heart and represented us brilliantly! 🌟👏 We certainly are small but mighty! 💪 #TennisChampions #BWDCompetition #Year4 #ProudSchool #TeamWork
Year 5 PGL
🧗♂️ What an Unforgettable Adventure! 🏹 Our Year 5 students have just returned from an incredible three-day residential at PGL (and yes, for those wondering, that stands for Parents Get Lost! 😉). From the moment they arrived, the energy was electric. Over the last three days, our young adventurers threw themselves into every challenge, including: • Raft Building: Testing their teamwork (and their buoyancy!) 🌊 • Archery: Finding their inner Robin Hood 🎯 • Problem Solving: Using those brilliant brains to crack tough codes 🧩 • Survival Skills: Learning how to thrive in the great outdoors 🌲 • Climbing & The Giant Swing: Reaching new heights and facing their fears head-on! 🎢 🌟 Heart, Courage, and Community Beyond the activities, what truly blew us away was their courage and determination. Whether they were dangling from the giant swing or navigating the woods, the way they shouted words of encouragement to one another was heart-warming. They behaved brilliantly throughout the trip and were a true credit to our school. We couldn't be prouder of the resilience they showed! 🙌 A Huge Thank You This trip wouldn’t have been possible without our amazing staff. A massive thank you to Mr Mealor, Miss Lyons, and Mrs Faux for giving up their time and working around the clock to ensure the children had a safe and life-changing experience. Welcome home, Year 5! Rest up—you’ve certainly earned it. 💤✨ #Year5 #PGL #SchoolTrip #AdventureAwaits #ProudSchool #Teamwork #MakingMemories All of the photos can be found here: https://stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/photo-galleries/year-5-pgl-may-2026
Year 6 - What does community mean to us?
This week in PSHE, Year 6 explored the meaning of “community” and reflected on the important role communities play in our lives. The children had mature and thoughtful discussions, sharing that communities help us to feel a sense of belonging, purpose, love, friendship and support. The children recognised that we are all part of many different communities, including our families, school, friendship groups, sports teams, clubs, faith groups and local neighbourhoods. Each child designed and decorated their own jigsaw piece to represent the different communities they belong to and the people who are important to them. The pieces were then joined together as a whole class puzzle, creating a wonderful visual reminder that although we are all unique, we each play an important part in the Year 6 community. The activity encouraged the children to celebrate both individuality and togetherness, reinforcing the importance of inclusion and connection within our school community.