Welcome to Reception!

We are delighted to welcome you and your child/ren to our Reception page. Starting school is an exciting milestone, and we look forward to sharing this special journey with you.

On this page, you will find lots of useful information about life in Reception, including newsletters and curriculum information. We will also share a gallery of photographs each term, giving you a glimpse into the exciting activities, learning experiences, and special moments enjoyed by the children throughout the year.

We look forward to working in partnership with you to ensure your child has a happy, successful, and memorable year in Reception.

 

Mrs Richardson

 Early Years Lead and Buxton Bear Class Teacher

 

 

 

 

 

                                      

 

Mrs Wojcik

Castleton Cat Class Teacher

 

 

 

Mouse Club

To help children feel happy and confident about starting school, we run our special Mouse Club transition programme. During Mouse Club, the children will meet our two friendly mouse characters, Maximus and Millie, who will help guide them through their Reception journey.

Every child is gifted their own transition mouse to take home. This special mouse acts as a familiar friend and comforter, helping children make positive connections between home and school as they settle into Reception. Through stories, activities and adventures with Maximus and Millie, we encourage confidence, independence and a love of learning from the very start.

Forest School Friday

Forest School is a child-centred, inspirational learning approach that provides opportunities for children to develop holistically through regular outdoor sessions. It encourages play, exploration, and supports risk-taking in a safe, natural environment. Through hands-on, learner-led experiences, children develop confidence, independence, resilience, and self-esteem while connecting with the natural world.

Mrs Richardson is a qualified Level 3 Forest School Practitioner and will coordinate and lead our Forest School sessions on Fridays.

Please ensure that your child has a pair of named Wellington boots in school every Friday, as Forest School takes place outdoors in all seasons. We recommend that children come dressed appropriately for the weather, with suitable warm and waterproof clothing when needed.

Class Dojo

We use Class Dojo to celebrate and share the wonderful "wow moments" of your child's learning and development in school. We also encourage families to share special achievements, experiences, and learning from home so that we can celebrate these together.

Children can earn Dojo Credits for demonstrating our school values, working hard, showing kindness, and making positive choices. These credits contribute towards their Bronze, Silver and Gold Certificates, which are celebrated in school.

Please note that Class Dojo is used to share learning and achievements and is not a messaging service between home and school. If you need to contact the school, please do so via the school office using the usual communication channels.

Words to Talk About

Each term we will share some of the new and exciting words we are learning in class. Talking about these words at home can help your child develop their language, understanding and confidence.

Autumn 1

Curriculum Overview 

Newsletters

Each term, we produce a newsletter packed with useful information about life in Reception. Newsletters include details about our learning themes, special events, important dates, reminders, and ways you can support your child's learning and development at home.

You can find copies of our latest newsletters below.

Gallery

Useful information and links

If you need to get in touch

If you need to speak with your child’s class teacher, there are a few ways to do this:

1. Send a Note
   You can write a note and give it to your child to pass on to the teacher.

2. Call the School Office
   Please phone the office and leave a message. We aim to return your call the same day, although this may not always be possible. Rest assured, we will always get back to you.

3. Arrange a Meeting After School
   You’re welcome to organise a time to speak with the teacher after school. We’ll work together to find a time that’s convenient for everyone.