From the very start of their St Christopher’s journey, our youngest children are gently prepared for the exciting step into Reception. Nursery feels like a warm extension of the school, where children learn through play, song, exploration and specialist teaching in a nurturing, family environment.

Throughout Nursery, children grow in confidence as they become familiar with the wider school community. They enjoy:

• Whole-school assemblies, celebrations and seasonal events such as Harvest, Remembrance and Christmas
• Opportunities to perform throughout the year, including the Nativity, the Early Years production and class assemblies
• Specialist lessons in Art, Music, PE, Forest School and French, where early language learning is introduced through joyful song and play
• House assemblies and events that nurture teamwork and belonging
• Favourite whole-school traditions such as World Book Day, The Great Pancake Race, the Elf Run and Sports Day

By the time they reach Reception, the school already feels like home.

Nursery children spend time across the school – eating in the hall, playing in the big playground, meeting specialist teachers and getting to know the staff who will support them as they move up. Shared approaches such as our phonics programme, the Zones of Regulation and whole-school routines help children feel secure and ready for the next step.

To make September feel effortless, we offer a gentle, well-planned transition:

• Reception Classroom Sessions – children explore their new classrooms and meet the Reception team
• Moving Up Morning – a special July session where children spend time with their new teachers and classmates
• Parent Information Evening – supporting families with everything they need to know for a confident start

When children arrive in September, they recognise the faces, the spaces and the rhythms of the day. This familiarity builds confidence, independence and a genuine excitement for learning.

At St Christopher’s, starting Reception isn’t a big leap – it’s a natural, joyful progression in a journey already filled with curiosity, care and a sense of belonging.