Starting Reception – A Great Beginning
Starting school is a major milestone in a child’s life. At our school, we understand how important it is to ensure children are well-prepared and feel confident as they begin their Reception year.  A positive start can shape a child’s attitude to learning, relationships, and school life for years to come.

Why Being Ready to Start School Matters
Being “school ready” helps children settle quickly, feel secure, and make the most of early learning experiences. It also helps staff support each child more effectively.

Here are some key reasons why being prepared for Reception is important:

• Smooth Transition: Children who are ready find it easier to adapt to new routines, environments, and expectations.
• Confidence & Independence: Feeling capable helps children build self-esteem and take part in activities more willingly.
• Social Skills: Being able to play, share, and take turns makes it easier to form friendships and work with others.
• Communication: Understanding and expressing needs clearly helps children engage with learning and with staff.
• Physical Readiness: Basic self-care skills such as dressing, toileting, and using cutlery support independence and wellbeing.
• Focus and Curiosity: Children who are curious and can listen or concentrate for short periods are ready to explore, ask questions, and learn.
• Emotional Resilience: Being able to manage feelings, follow simple instructions, and cope with minor setbacks supports healthy development.

How You Can Help at Home
Families play a vital role in helping children get ready for school. Encouraging routines, reading together, talking about feelings, and allowing children to do things for themselves are all valuable ways to build readiness.

Below are some helpful resources and information to support you in getting your child ready for school.

How To Be A Super Communicator – Click here to open document

How are families feeling about their child starting school?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/ztkbn9q

Time for School: Primary school children show us what their day looks like
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z78dtcw

Is your child starting school for the first time? The CBeebies Learn app and Dodge’s Pup School can help
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/ztqwnk7

How I’m preparing my twins for starting school
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zm23pg8

Starting primary school with SEND
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zv8q8xs

Our adventure starting primary school
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zyg8g7h