Branch 5 - To the Ends of the Earth

Year 3

Pupils explored the events that followed the Resurrection through the Acts of the Apostles and the letters of St Paul. They discovered how the Mass today reflects the worship of the early Christians, making links with St Paul’s teaching and the story of the Road to Emmaus. Pupils also developed their understanding of the Holy Trinity through the liturgy and learned about Mary’s special role in the Church through the events of the Annunciation and Pentecost.

Year 4

Pupils completed the story of St Peter by exploring his restoration by the risen Jesus and his role as leader of the early Church. They learned why the Church is described as apostolic, studying the Pope as Peter’s successor and the responsibilities of clergy in serving God’s people. Pupils deepened their understanding of the Church as the Body of Christ and explored the Apostles’ Creed as a summary of the faith proclaimed at baptism. They also reflected on Marian devotion and the shared mission of all Christians to build the Kingdom of God through faith, service and witness. They enjoyed sharing their ideas as they Looked, Thought and Wondered when presented with a piece of artwork.

Year 5

Pupils explored the Sacrament of Confirmation, studying its foundations in Scripture from the prophets to Pentecost and understanding its role as a Sacrament of Initiation. They learned how the Holy Spirit strengthens the baptised through Confirmation, including the meaning of epiclesis, the symbolism of anointing with chrism, and the role of the bishop as successor to the apostles. They represented how the Holy Spirit is portrayed in artwork. Pupils also examined how Christians live out the gifts of the Holy Spirit through the example of the saints and reflected on the Blessed Virgin Mary as a model of openness to God's call.

Year 6

Pupils explored St John’s account of the Resurrection, making links between Genesis and the risen Jesus as the ‘last Adam’ who restores humanity’s relationship with God. They investigated key symbols such as the garden, light and darkness, and reflected on faith through Jesus’ gift of the Holy Spirit and the story of Thomas. Pupils also considered how Christians bear witness to the Resurrection today through prayer, scripture and the sacraments, inspired by the example of St Stephen, the first Christian.