We are delighted to welcome you and your child to our Reception Class. Starting school is such a significant milestone and we feel privileged to share this exciting new chapter with you. Reception is the beginning of your child’s learning journey in school — a time to grow in confidence, develop new skills and form lasting friendships.
With Jesus we learn, we care, we listen, we share, and above all we love — so that He might be seen in the people that we are and the things that we do.
Our school life is rooted in Gospel values, and in Reception we aim to create a joyful, nurturing environment where children know they are loved, valued, and supported.
Each day, we remind ourselves of our special motto:
JOY – Jesus, Others, Yourself.
This helps us to live out our faith in a practical way, putting Jesus first, caring for others, and developing respect and responsibility for ourselves.
A clear routine helps children feel safe, confident and ready to learn.
Here is what a typical day in Reception looks like:
Morning Drop-off – Children are welcomed into the classroom and begin the day with calm activities to help them settle. We offer a soft start, please drop of your children from 08:45 - 08:55
Morning Prayer and Register – We begin each day by coming together in prayer, remembering that Jesus is at the heart of all we do.
Phonics and Literacy – Focused teaching and activities to develop early reading and writing skills.
Play and Exploration – Time to explore indoor and outdoor areas, choosing activities that support learning through play.
Snack Time – A healthy snack is shared and children develop independence by helping themselves.
Mathematics – Practical, hands-on activities to build confidence with numbers, shapes and problem-solving.
Outdoor Learning – Daily outdoor play encourages physical development, teamwork and curiosity about the natural world.
Collective Worship / RE – Short, meaningful times of prayer or reflection, celebrating our faith.
Lunch – A social time for eating together and practising good table manners.
Afternoon Learning – Topic-based activities, creative arts and opportunities for Understanding the World.
Story and Reflection – Each day ends with a story and reflection, helping children to wind down, share experience and give thanks.
This balance of structured learning and play ensures children develop key skills while enjoying their time at school.
We know that parents are children’s first and most important educators. We value strong partnerships and work closely with families to support every child’s learning and development.
You can support your child at home by:
Sharing books and stories regularly
Talking about their day and encouraging conversation
Promoting independence in dressing, eating, and tidying up
Encouraging curiosity about the world around them
We also warmly invite you to be part of our school community by joining us for Mass, assemblies, celebrations and workshops throughout the year.
The Reception year is a time of growth, discovery, and joy. Together, we will support your child to:
Develop confidence and independence
Build friendships and social skills
Learn the foundations of reading, writing, and mathematics
Celebrate their faith and grow spiritually
Experience the joy of learning in a safe, happy, and nurturing environment
We are so excited to work with you and your child as we begin this wonderful journey together.
Autumn 2
Power Point slides from writing meeting November 2023