Starting in Reception
We know that starting school can feel like a big step for children and their families.
Here at St John’s, we pride ourselves on our attention to individual needs - we know this makes a real difference to every child who joins us.
Currently, the team of adults supporting learning in Foundation are: Katharine Pemberton and Louise Wright (class teachers), Ruth White and Hailie Smith. We aim to support you, so starting school becomes the next exciting step in your child’s journey of discovery...
Here are some answers to the questions many new parents ask:
Q: What happens if my child doesn’t settle?
Each child experiences the transition to school in their own way. We try to find out about children’s individual interests, so that we can offer a range of play opportunities to match their personalities. If your child is finding it hard to settle we will work closely with you to find out just what your child needs to feel safe and secure.
Q: How long is the school day for the youngest children?
We offer a staggered start to school during the early weeks of the September term. For the first week children come to school from 9am to 12 noon on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday unless we have alternative arrangements with you personally. From week 2 we will have full school days. Click here to see the times of the school day.
Q: Will my child be taught the National Curriculum?
Children are not taught the National Curriculum until Year 1. We follow the Department for Education’s Early Years curriculum, which has seven areas of learning. You can read more about this on the DfE’s website: DfE Foundation Years
Q: How do you help children to get ready for starting school at St John’s?
We offer settling in sessions before the summer holidays. These days are a great opportunity for children and parents to get to know our staff and get a feel for the school environment while having lots of fun – going on a scavenger hunt, sharing a teddy bears’ picnic, playing in our classroom and sharing a story.
Q: We’re not Anglican. Will my child fit in?
We feel that our core values of caring and respect run through the major world religions and humanist philosophies too. There are children at St John’s from families with a range of Christian and non-Christian faiths, and also with no religious belief. All children are welcome. If this remains a question mark for you please come and talk to us, and we hope you will be reassured.
