Reception Starters

A very warm welcome to Reception at Redlands Primary School.

We are delighted that your child will be joining our school community this September. Starting school is a big step, and we are here to make that transition a positive and exciting experience for both you and your child. We look forward to welcoming you into our nurturing and engaging Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) environment, where your child will begin their learning journey with us.

During the summer term, you will receive a full transition timetable, as well as details on how to complete our online admission forms. All our communication will be via email, so please check your inbox and junk folder regularly, and always include your child’s name when replying.

Transition to School

At Redlands, we understand that starting school is a major milestone. A smooth transition is key to supporting your child’s emotional well-being, confidence, and enthusiasm for learning. We place high importance on building strong relationships with families and getting to know each child as an individual — their interests, strengths, and any areas where they might need a little extra support.

Our transition programme is designed to ensure that all children feel safe, happy, and ready to begin this new adventure.

Our Parent Handbook and Reception Photobook will help answer many of your initial questions and introduce you to daily life in Reception at Redlands.

Transition Arrangements

Welcome Meeting and Transition Morning

We will hold a Welcome Meeting for all parents and carers during the summer term. This is a valuable opportunity to meet the Reception teaching team, the Headteacher, and other new families. We will share key information about school routines, expectations, and how we support your child’s transition into Reception.

As part of the transition process, your child will also be invited to a Transition Morning. This session takes place during the school day and gives your child the chance to spend time in their new classroom, meet their teachers and future classmates, and begin to feel at home in the environment.

The date and time of the Welcome Meeting and Transition Morning will be confirmed via email.

Stay and Play

We are also pleased to offer a Stay and Play session after school in the summer term. This informal visit allows you and your child to explore the Reception classrooms and outdoor areas together, and to meet the teaching staff in a relaxed setting. Children can enjoy familiarising themselves with the learning environment before their official start.

This year’s Stay and Play session will take place after school on TBC. Further details will be shared closer to the time.

Home Visits

At Redlands, we highly value the opportunity to visit each child in their home setting before they begin school. Home visits help us build a personal connection with your child and family, and provide a calm, familiar space where we can begin to get to know each other. School staff will visit at the beginning of the Autumn Term. Please note: If your child currently attends Redlands Nursery, a home visit will not be arranged.

For children new to Redlands, you will be sent a time and date for a Home Visit during the Summer Term.

Starting School

Each child at Redlands will be part of a Reception class of up to 30 children and will attend school on a full-time basis. If you feel your child would benefit from a staggered or part-time start during the first few weeks, we are happy to discuss this and will work with you to support a gentle transition.

This year, Reception children will start school on TBC. The school day finishes at 3:05pm.