Dussindale
Primary School
Dussindale Primary School, Vane Close, Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich NR7 0US
Tel: 01603 436180
Upper Key Stage 2
Upper Key Stage 2 (UKS2) refers to Years 5 and 6 in the English education system, typically for children aged 9 to 11. It is the final phase of Key Stage 2 (KS2) before they transition to secondary school.
What Do Children Learn in Upper Key Stage 2?
Children follow the National Curriculum, which includes:
1. English (Literacy)
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Reading comprehension and analysis of challenging texts (fiction, non-fiction, poetry).
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Writing for different purposes (stories, reports, persuasive texts, explanations).
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Grammar, punctuation, and spelling (SPaG).
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Speaking and listening skills through debates, presentations, and discussions.
2. Mathematics
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Fractions, decimals, and percentages.
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Long multiplication and division.
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Algebra, ratio, and proportion (introduced in Year 6).
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Problem-solving and reasoning skills.
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Geometry (angles, shapes, coordinates).
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Data handling (graphs, averages, probability).
3. Science
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Forces (gravity, friction, air and water resistance).
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Properties and changes of materials.
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Living things and their habitats (classification, adaptation, evolution).
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The human body (circulatory system, diet, and exercise).
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Light, electricity, and sound.
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Conducting scientific investigations.
4. History
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British history (e.g., Victorians, World War II).
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Ancient civilisations (e.g., Ancient Greeks, Maya).
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Local and global historical events and figures.
5. Geography
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Map reading and navigation (longitude, latitude, OS maps).
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Physical geography (volcanoes, rivers, earthquakes).
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Human geography (migration, trade, climate change).
6. Computing
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Coding and programming (using Scratch, Python, or HTML).
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Internet safety and responsible online behaviour.
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Spreadsheets, databases, and presentations.
7. Art & Design / Design & Technology (DT)
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Drawing, painting, and sculpture using various techniques.
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Evaluating artists’ work.
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Designing and making projects using different materials.
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Cooking and nutrition.
8. Physical Education (PE)
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Team sports (football, netball, hockey).
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Gymnastics and dance.
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Athletics and outdoor adventure activities.
9. Religious Education (RE)
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Learning about different religions and worldviews.
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Exploring moral and ethical issues.
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Reflecting on personal beliefs.
10. Music
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Composing and performing music.
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Learning an instrument (e.g., recorder, ukulele).
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Understanding musical notation.
11. Modern Foreign Languages (MFL)
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Learning basic vocabulary and phrases in languages like French or Spanish.
12. Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Education
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Emotional well-being and mental health.
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Healthy relationships and puberty.
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Citizenship, financial literacy, and career aspirations.
Assessment in Upper Key Stage 2
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Year 6 SATs: Standardised tests in English (Reading, SPaG) and Maths.
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Teacher Assessments: Ongoing evaluations in writing, science, and foundation subjects.
Why is Upper Key Stage 2 Important?
It prepares children for secondary school by developing independence, problem-solving, and resilience in learning.
Would you like details on specific subjects or strategies to support learning at home? 😊