Starting School at St Edmund's
A warm, thoughtful and confident start for every child 
Starting school is a very special milestone, for both children and parents. At St Edmund's we take great care to ensure that every child's transition into Reception is happy, gentle and well supported.
From the moment you child is offered a place, we begin building relationships so that by September, children feel safe, confident and excited to begin their journey with us.
We are excited to meet and get to know every family, and our transition programme is design to do exactly that.
Our Transition Approach
We believe that a successful start to school is built on:
- Strong relationships between home and school
- Familiarity with the environment and routines
- Time to settle gradually
- Listening to each child's individual needs.
Every step of our transition journey is carefully planned to ensure children and families feel supported throughout.
Your Transition Journey at St Edmund's
June: Personal Welcome Meetings
Children and their families are invited to a one-to-one meeting with Mrs Moreland. This is an opportunity for parents to ask questions and share information.
Each child receives a special St Edmund's water bottle, gifted by our Parents' Association.
28th June: Summer Fair
Our much-loved PA Summer Fair is a wonderful opportunity to experience the school community in a relaxed setting, meet other families and visit our new Reception parents' welcome table.
Thursday 2nd July: Parent Information Evening (7pm)
This important evening gives parents the opportunity to:
- Meet the Headteacher and Reception team
- Hear directly from class teachers
- Visit the classrooms your children will be learning in
- Sample school meals
- Purchase second-hand uniform or find out about our local uniform supplier
- Join the Parents' Association (PA)
- Learn about support available at school, including Young Carers.
Monday 6th July: Children's Stay & Play Session (9:30-10:30am)
All new Reception children are invited into school to:
- Meet and get to know their new teachers
- Spend time and have fun with future classmates
- Explore our wonderful dedicated Reception environment.
September: Home Visits
During the week of 7th September, each child will receive a home visit from their new class teacher. This will give the children an opportunity to meet their teacher in a familiar environment and parents will have the opportunity to talk one-to-one about any worries or concerns.
Week of 14th September: Settling-in Sessions
Children begin school in small groups, with each child having two mornings in school to build confidence, start to understand the routines and get to know staff and new friends - all in a calm and supportive environment.
Friday 18th September: First Full Morning
All children will attend school together and have their first experience of lunchtime at school. A big step in becoming part of the St Edmund's community.
Week of 21st September: Full Time Start
Children begin attending school full time, feeling settled, secure and ready to learn.
Friday 23rd October: New Parents' Coffee Morning
All Reception and Nursery parents are warmly invited to attend our coffee morning, meet other parents, build important friendships and feel part of the wider school community. Of course there will be biscuits!
We Can't Wait to Welcome You
At St Edmund's transition is not just about starting school, it's about building relationships, nurturing confidence and creating a lifelong love of learning. We are truly looking forward to welcoming you and your child into our school."Together we learn and grow through worship and celebration"