Welcome to Year 6!
A huge welcome to Year 6. Our teaching team consists of Miss Varley, Miss McGullion, Mrs Brannigan, Mrs Hussain, Mrs Chadureey, Mrs Mitchell, Miss Roberts and Miss Caldwell.
In Year 6, we aim to foster a genuine love of learning that extends beyond the classroom and into every child’s life. We want our pupils to feel excited about coming to school, fully engaged in their learning, and confident in expressing their views with politeness, respect, and harmony.
We believe that education should be inspirational, challenging, and nurturing. Our goal is to prepare every child to meet life’s challenges with resilience, curiosity, and compassion. By creating an atmosphere of high expectations and meaningful challenge, offering memorable experiences, and encouraging reflective understanding, we support children in developing not only a strong sense of self but also a deep appreciation of the communities around them.
What's special about Year 6?
As their final year at St Thomas’ year 6 is a special and memorable time full of new opportunities, responsibility and new experiences. Children can take on important roles such as head boy or girl, become school council members, join the ethos team or become a subject ambassador - becoming role models for the rest of the school. They also look forward to special trips, including an exciting residential near the end of the year, which helps to build independence, teamwork and lasting memories. A key focus is preparing for the move to secondary school, with support, visits and transition activities that ensure every child feels confident, resilient and ready to take on the next stage of their learning journey.
In Year 6, we are lucky to have specialist teachers who inspire the children in music, art, and computing. Our fantastic new library offers a wide range of books, while each classroom has dedicated spaces to support learning. Every child is also allocated their own iPad for the school year, giving them exciting opportunities to explore, create, and learn in interactive ways.
How We Learn
As a one and a half form entry school, we have a unique structure that allows us to make the most of every child’s learning journey. Within each phase there is a mixed age class, and an additional teacher works alongside us every morning so that our Year 5 and Year 6 children can access maths, literacy and reading at the level that suits them best.
Across the wider curriculum, we follow a two-year rolling programme, which ensures that every Year 5 and 6 objective is taught and revisited in a balanced, engaging way. This means children benefit from a broad and carefully planned learning experience. Alongside whole-class teaching, small group interventions run throughout the year to provide targeted support where needed. Together as an Upper Key Stage team, we create a friendly, supportive environment for all our children.
Past Pupil Testimonial
"My final year at St Thomas Primary School has been an unforgettable journey filled with growth, learning, and cherished memories. Year 6 has been both exciting and challenging, with SATs, responsibilities as the head girl in the school, and the many fun events that made it so special. I’ve grown more confident, made strong friendships, and learned valuable lessons that I will carry with me to secondary school. The teachers have been incredibly supportive, always encouraging us to do our best and believe in ourselves. From class trips to school performances and sports days, every moment has helped shape who I am today. I’m especially proud of everything our year group has achieved together, and I’m so thankful for the experiences that have prepared me for the next big step in my education. St Thomas will always hold a special place in my heart." - Rumanah
Miss Varley
I have worked at St Thomas’ school for over twenty years- the majority of the time in year 6. Working with the children in their final year at this school is something I truly enjoy-it's such a significant year for children, full of growth, challenges, and preparation for the next big step before high school. Teaching is something I genuinely love-I get to build meaningful relationships with your child, watch them learn and develop, and be part of their journey during such a formative time in their lives.
Outside of school, I love spending time with family and friends. I enjoy reading, walking and going watching shows at the theatre. A fun fact about me is that I used to do Irish dancing when I was younger!
Miss McGullion
I have been teaching for eight years, with most of that time spent in Year 6. I love working with upper Key Stage 2 and helping pupils grow in confidence and independence as they prepare for the transition to secondary school.
As Reading Lead, I’m passionate about promoting a love of reading across the whole school. I enjoy helping children discover books that inspire and excite them, and supporting staff in developing engaging reading opportunities for all learners.
In the classroom, I set high expectations in a learning environment that is inclusive, supportive, and fun. I believe children achieve their best when they feel challenged, valued, and happy.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family. I love long walks and exploring new places, and I especially enjoy sharing books - both my own and with my two daughters during our regular reading time together.
Mrs Mitchell
I have worked at St Thomas’ school for nearly twenty years. During that time I have worked in all of the classes, enjoying helping, supporting and watching the children learn and grow.
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, walking my dog and I also love football. At least one day over the weekend is a football day either watching it on TV or going to a live game!
Mrs Hussain
I have worked with children for 20 years, eight of which have been at St Thomas. I thoroughly enjoy my role as a teaching assistant, as each day brings new challenges and rewarding moments — whether it’s supporting children in their learning or watching them grow socially and emotionally.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, gardening, going for walks, and exploring new places.
Miss Roberts
I have worked at St Thomas as a 1:1 assistant for the past four years, during which I’ve had the opportunity to support pupils across all phases of the school. What I enjoy most about my role is helping children achieve their goals and finding creative, engaging ways to support their learning.
When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending my time reading and completing jigsaw puzzles. I also love making memories and spending quality time with my family and friends.
Mrs Ibrahim
I am a special needs assistant in school with over 10 years of experience. I am deeply fulfilled by my role, which allows me to support children with diverse learning needs in a way that feels both challenging and incredibly rewarding.
When I’m not working I like to spend my time with family creating new memories. I also enjoying being outdoors, going for long walks and adventures.
