One of the advantages of Leweston Nursery that children can move seamlessly into the Reception class when it is time for them to start school.
The Reception class forms part of Leweston Pre-Prep, a discrete area of the Prep School with its own entrance and play area. Reception to Year 2 are based here. The children will, of course, already know many of the staff as they are already involved in their teaching, and the grounds, Forest School and dining hall will already be familiar to them.
Settling-in and introductions
During the Autumn Term all families in Transition 2 will be invited to visit Reception and meet the team. The class, along with their new classmates, will also be invited to our annual Starters’ Party in April. Held in the Reception classroom and hosted by the teaching team this is a fun opportunity to introduce the concept of starting school as well as participate in some fun and games. This is followed by weekly settling in sessions during the Summer Term. Gemma Cheyne is the Reception Teacher and Head of Early Years and she works closely with the Nursery staff to support the children’s transition to Reception. They introduce the children to the new setting and help them to feel comfortable with their new environment. Our aim is to make starting school as stress-free as possible for children and parents.
Information sessions for parents
Towards the end of the summer term parents are invited to an induction meeting with the Reception Teacher. This provides an ideal time for you to share information about your child, their likes and dislikes, and learn more about the the Early Years Foundation Stage and to ask any questions you may have about starting school.
Starting School
In September all new pupils and their parents are invited into the Prep on the afternoon before term starts. The children will be reacquainted with their new classroom, introduced to the teachers, shown their peg, drawer and talked through what will happen the following morning. You will have the opportunity to meet new and existing parents and talk to staff. The event is a fun and informal way to alleviate any start of term nerves and gives the children confidence for their first day.
