Infant School
Starting Our School
Starting in Reception
Reception is the first year at Henleaze Infant School and the final year of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The EYFS outlines the learning, development, and care of children from birth until the end of the academic year in which they turn five. It is based on the principle that every child is unique and learns best through positive relationships and rich opportunities to explore ideas and the world around them within an enabling, supportive environment.
EYFS Curriculum
At Henleaze Infant School, we provide an exciting and inspiring curriculum designed to engage our pupils and introduce them to the experiences and skills they need for life-long learning. Our curriculum is delivered through purposeful play alongside a wide range of enjoyable and appropriately challenging activities that are a balance of adult-led learning and child-initiated exploration.
You can find out more information about our curriculum on the curriculum pages. Before your child starts school with us, you will be invited to an information evening where you will have the opportunity to meet the Reception team and other parents. Once your child has started school, information about the curriculum will be shared in a range of ways including:
- Watching your child take part in a phonics lesson
- Attend an Early Reading and Phonics meeting
- Attend parent-teacher consultation evenings
- Weekly blog posts informing you of what your child will be learning in school
Every child will have an online learning diary (Tapestry) that can be contributed to by both home and school and this builds a wonderful evidence base for their learning journey throughout the foundation stage.
Transition from pre-school/nursery to reception
Reception is the first year at Henleaze Infant School and the final year of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Our experience has shown us that children benefit from a staggered induction when they start their Reception year. This enables children to develop confidence as they build up their time and experience in school and for staff to build a strong relationship with each child and their family. We begin with stay and play sessions in the summer term before children start school, then offer a home visit in early September to ensure all the information about your child is passed onto their key adults, followed by a planned transition timetable where children attend school in smaller groups, initially on a part-time basis. All children will be in school full time by the start of October.
Being school ready
The DfE have created a website called Starting Reception. Click here to go to the website. You can find lots of information about ‘key skills’ that will support your child’s confidence and independence, helping them feel emotionally and practically prepared to start school.
Bristol Family Hubs have also created a dedicated page which also offers information to families to support the transition into school. Click here to go to the website.
Stories about starting school
Below are some suggestions of stories that you could read to your child before starting school. Click here to find out about each story in more depth.
we are a prem aware school
We are recognised as being a Prem Aware School. We know that starting school can be a big step in the journey for families after neonatal care, and many parents worry about the lasting impact of premature birth. With an average of two to three children in every classroom being born early, we know that teachers can play a crucial role in supporting and making a difference to the lives of children born prematurely.
In year admissions
Many children join our school at different points throughout the year and across various year groups. To help them settle in, we provide a dedicated transition period where they can meet their new classroom team and classmates. Each child is also paired with a ‘buddy’ who supports them during their first few weeks, helping them feel welcomed and confident as they adjust to school life.