New Starters
Welcome To Reception at St Andrew's Infant School
We are delighted that your child will be joining us this September. Starting school is a big and exciting milestone, and we are here to support both you and your child every step of the way. This page contains everything you need to help your child transition from their Nursery setting and to settle into Reception smoothly and confidently.
key dates
Welcome to St Andrew's Infant School, by Executive Headteacher - Jayne Venables - via Teams - date tbc
Stay & Play Sessions
Session 1:
2nd June 2026 - Summer born
3rd June 2026 - Spring born
4th June 2026 - Autumn born
Session 2:
15th June 2026 - Summer born
16th June 2026 - Spring born
17th June 2026 - Autumn born
Meet The Teacher Meeting - St Andrew's School Hall - Wednesday 1st July, 2026 at 6.30pm
Home Visits - 2nd, 3rd, 4th September, 2026 (you will be emailed your date and time slot in advance)
Invite to Space2Grow Class Social - Monday 7th September, 2026 (time tbc)
School Start Dates
9th September, 2026 - Summer born children (May-August)
10th September, 2026 - Spring born children (January-April)
11th September, 2026 - Autumn born children (September-December)
prepare your child for school
Preparing your child to start Reception is an exciting step, and there are many simple ways you can help them feel confident and ready for this new chapter.
One of the most important things you can do is encourage independence. Practising everyday skills such as putting on coats and shoes, using the toilet independently, washing hands, and managing lunch items will help your child feel more self-assured in the school environment.
Developing routines at home can also make a big difference. Establishing consistent bedtimes and morning routines will help your child adjust more easily to the structure of the school day. Talking positively about school and what to expect can build excitement and reduce any worries they may have.
Communication is key. Encouraging your child to talk about their needs, ask for help, and express their feelings will support them in building relationships with adults and other children. Sharing stories, singing songs, and engaging in conversations together are all valuable ways to develop these skills.
Play is a powerful way for children to learn. Activities such as drawing, building, role play, and exploring outdoors help to develop confidence, curiosity, and social skills. Encouraging turn-taking, sharing, and playing with others will also support your child as they begin to make new friends.
Finally, reassurance from you is invaluable. Every child settles at their own pace, and a calm, positive approach will help them feel secure. By working together, we can ensure your child makes a happy and confident start to their Reception year
Here are some links to resources to support you when getting your child ready for school:
what to bring
To help your child feel comfortable and prepared for their school day, we ask that they bring a few essential items with them each day.
All children should have a clearly named water bottle, so they can stay hydrated throughout the day. Please ensure this is brought in daily and taken home regularly for cleaning.
We also ask that children bring a small drawstring bag containing a spare set of clothes, including pants, socks, and trousers. These should all be clearly labelled with your child’s name. Having spare clothing in school helps us support your child quickly and discreetly if needed.
In addition, each child will need a book bag for carrying reading books, letters, and other important items between home and school. Checking your child’s book bag daily will help you stay up to date with their learning and any communications.
Please ensure that all items are clearly named to help us return them quickly if misplaced. Thank you for your support in helping your child come to school ready to learn each day.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
THE SCHOOL DAY
Gates open at 8.25am
Children to be collected at 3.10pm
LUNCHES
COMMUNICATION
Staying Connected at St Andrews
SETTLING IN
Starting school is a big milestone for both children and their families. We are committed to ensuring that every child's transition into reception is as smooth, positive, and reassuring as possible. We recognise that children start school with a wide range of experiences and we take time to get to know your child as an individual.
Before starting, we offer a range of transition, such as stay and play, meeting the teaching team, sharing information with parents and carers and home visits. This helps children to become familiar with their new environment and begin to feel safe and confident.
In the first dew weeks of term, our priority is to support children in settling into school routines, building relationships, and develop a sense of belonging in our school community. Our Early years team is experienced at creating a warm, nurturing environment where children feel valued and supported. We use a child-centred approach allowing children to explore, play, and gradually adapt to the structure of the school day at their own pace.
Strong partnerships with parents and carers are central to a successful transition. We maintain open communication, share updates, and offer guidance so that families feel informed and supported throughout.
By creating a calm, welcoming environment and responding to each child's needs, we ensure that every child has a confident and happy start to their school journey.
MEDICAL & dietary requirements
If your child has any medical or dietary needs, please ensure the school is notified ahead of your child's start date.
