Frequently Asked Questions

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 1. When should I start thinking about choosing a school?

It’s never too early to begin exploring what’s right for your child. Most families begin researching schools the year before their child is due to start Reception. If your child will be starting in September 2026, we recommend visiting schools during 2025 to get a real feel for the environment.

2. What age does my child need to be to start school?

Children usually start Reception in the September after their fourth birthday. If your child was born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022, they’ll be due to start school in September 2026.

3. How do I find the right school for my child?

Every child is different, so it helps to look for a school where your child will feel safe, happy, and supported. When you visit, look out for:

• Warm relationships between staff and children

• Engaging and purposeful classroom environments

• Children who are happy, curious, and confident

• Opportunities for outdoor play and creativity

• A culture of kindness, inclusion, and high expectations

4. Can I visit your school before applying?

Absolutely – we love welcoming families into our schools! Visiting gives you a real sense of what daily life is like. Just get in touch with the school office to arrange a tour. You'll also find booking forms and information on each of our school websites.

5. What should I ask or look for on a school visit?

Here are some good things to ask:

• What does a typical day look like in Reception?

• How do you help children settle in if they’re feeling nervous?

• How do you support children who need extra help – or more challenge?

• What do you do to encourage a love of reading and learning?

Look for confident, engaged children – and happy, enthusiastic staff.

6. What is the process for applying for a school place?

You apply through your local authority's admissions portal, usually between November and January before your child starts. You can list up to 3 or 4 preferences. Offers are made around April. We can help guide you through this if needed!

7. What kind of transition support do you offer for new starters?

Starting school is a big step – and we take it gently. We offer:

• Stay-and-play sessions

• Home or nursery visits

• Lots of opportunities for your child to feel safe, confident, and excited

8. What will my child learn in Reception?

Reception is part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It’s a rich mix of play-based and guided learning in:

• Communication and language

• Physical development

• Personal, social and emotional development

• Literacy and maths

• Understanding the world

• Expressive arts and design

We build strong foundations while nurturing each child’s individuality.

9. My child has additional needs – can I still apply?

Yes. Our schools are inclusive and experienced in supporting children with a wide range of needs. If your child has additional needs, we recommend a conversation with the school’s SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) early on, so we can understand how best to support them.

10. I don’t live in the village / close to the school – can I still apply?

In most cases, yes. Each school has its own admissions criteria, which may include catchment area, siblings, and distance from the school. If you’re interested in a particular school, get in touch – we’ll be happy to explain how it works. Admissions criteria for each of our 10 schools can be found on the individual school websites.