Transition to Reception
As your child embarks on their exciting journey in Reception, I am thrilled to be part of their learning and development. In our class, we focus on creating a warm, supportive environment where children feel safe, valued and eager to explore. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is all about learning through play and we believe that fostering a love of learning from the starts sets the foundation for a lifelong curiosity.
Throughout the year, your child will develop key skills in literacy, numeracy, communication and social interactions. We work on building independence, encouraging self-confidence and nurturing creativity. I will be there to guide them every step of the way, ensuring they are supported in their individual needs and strengths.
Communication with parents is key and I encourage you to share any thoughts or concerns as we work together to help your child thrive. I look forward to a wonderful year of growth, discovery and joy as your child begins their school adventure!
Warm regards
Kate Gallagher Reception Class Teacher & EYFS Curriculum Lead
Bede’s Preparatory School
Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne
East Sussex BN20 7XL
T 01323 734222
prep.school@bedes.org
bedes.org
FROM THE HEAD
The Early Years Foundation Stage, including Pre-School, Nursery and Reception, is a crucial starting point for our children’s school life at Bede’s.
We are dedicated to instilling in each young Bedian the confidence, capability and curiosity to explore the world around them.
Our curriculum is creative and investigative, where children can develop their skills and competencies in small groups under the caring support and expert guidance of the teachers working with them.
During this key stage of development, we focus on skills of literacy, numeracy, science investigation skills and critical thinking, nurturing and enabling the children to develop the valuable tools they need for independent learning.
With the exception of specialist subjects such as dance, games, music and swimming, children are taught in their
class group. As a result, our children enjoy the security of their own classroom environment and spend high-quality time with their teacher as well as learning new skills and subjects from specialist teachers.
We are keen to promote child-initiated learning in order to build early skills of independence. To achieve this, each child is supported and challenged in tasks that are skilfully tailored to individual needs. At this early stage, we encourage children to reflect on their own learning as well as appreciating the efforts of others.
Our unique location at the foot of the South Downs National Park and beside a beautiful coastline offers children fantastic learning opportunities. This includes Bede’s on the Beach, Forest School, investigations on the South Downs as well as the use of our Outdoor Classroom. Likewise, we enrich our curriculum topics through termly class trips in our surrounding area.
Bede’s Preparatory School
Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne
East Sussex BN20 7XL
Leigh-Anne Morris Head of Prep School
T 01323 734222
prep.school@bedes.org
bedes.org
TRANSITION ARRANGEMENTS
We ensure that our Nursery children are fully prepared for their transition to Reception Class and are given regular opportunities to visit their new class.
During the Summer Term, Pre-School children will be invited to visit their new class and teachers on a regular basis. Our Reception teachers also visit the Pre-School children at play and story times.
We pride ourselves on establishing strong links with our parents and believe that maintaining these links are vital to your child’s development.
Initially, parents are invited to attend a meeting with their Reception teacher in September to find out more about routines and the term’s creative curriculum topics. However, our door is open for you to communicate any concerns or
questions you may have at any time. Please do not think twice about popping in for a chat.
Over the year, parents will receive two written reports that communicate their child’s progress towards the early learning goals. These reports reflect adult-led learning and observations of independent daily activities. They also have the opportunity to speak to their child’s class teacher twice a year at parent consultations. As well as individual feedback on your child’s learning and development, these reports also contain an assessment of your child’s progress against the EYFS Early Learning Goals, and bespoke suggestions on how to help your child at home.
Outside of reports and parent consultation evenings, members of the Reception team are always very happy to meet and discuss each child’s learning at any time of the year.
Bede’s Preparatory School
Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne
East Sussex BN20 7XL
T 01323 734222
prep.school@bedes.org bedes.org
INTRODUCTION FROM THE HEAD OF RECEPTION TO YEAR 2
At Bede’s Pre-Prep, we believe in crafting a joyful, nurturing, and enriching educational journey where every child feels inspired to grow, thrive, and discover. Our mission is to provide the very best start to your child’s education, celebrating their individuality while fostering a deep love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
In Reception, Year 1, and Year 2, children are immersed in our Firm Foundations curriculum, which is carefully designed to ignite curiosity and foster exploration. Through enquiry-based learning, we encourage our young learners to ask questions, solve problems, and engage with the world around them in meaningful ways. From English and Maths to creative arts and science, every lesson builds confidence, independence, and joy.
We are proud to embed Bede’s Values in all we do. Through the Compassionate Chameleon, Courageous Crocodile, Curious Cat, and Conscientious Camel, we help children understand the importance of kindness, resilience, curiosity, and responsibility. These guiding values are woven into every
aspect of school life, shaping thoughtful and confident young learners who are ready to embrace the future.
At Bede’s Pre-Prep, our vibrant learning environment extends far beyond the classroom. Whether exploring the coastline at Beach School, discovering the wonders of nature in our Adventure Garden, or participating in Forest School activities, children develop a lasting connection to the natural world. Our specialist teachers bring excitement to lessons in French, music, sport, and dance, ensuring every child can explore and nurture their unique talents and interests.
Our exceptional staff are committed to building strong relationships with pupils and families, creating a community where every child feels supported and valued. With kindness at the heart of all we do, we celebrate the individuality of each child, encouraging them to embrace challenges and grow with confidence.
We look forward to welcoming you and your child to this extraordinary stage of their learning adventure, where every day is filled with discovery, joy, and celebration.
Anna Green
Head of Reception to Year 2
ABOUT THE CURRICULUM
Children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 engage in our dynamic Firm Foundations curriculum, which inspires curiosity, fosters cross-curricular connections, and develops essential lifelong skills. Our English teaching is supported by the Monster Phonics scheme, which uses a unique colourcoded approach to build confidence in reading and writing. This multisensory programme brings phonics to life, helping every child master the fundamental skills for literacy in an engaging and memorable way.
English and Maths are embedded in every lesson, forming a strong foundation for learning across the curriculum. Our vibrant classrooms are carefully designed with purposeful and meticulously planned activities that challenge and engage. We prioritise open-ended questioning to stimulate children’s independent thinking, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. This enquiry-based approach encourages self-discovery and develops critical thinking, enabling children to approach their learning with confidence and excitement.
The Firm Foundations curriculum is guided by and built upon the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring a strong focus on the prime areas of development:
• Communication and language
• Personal, social, and emotional development
• Physical development
In small groups, children work collaboratively with their teachers to develop targeted skills and achieve individual goals. Whether exploring, thinking, playing, or creating, each child is guided by dedicated teachers who support their journey with warmth and expertise.
Our curriculum is designed to ensure that every child is extended to their full potential and finds joy in their own pursuit of brilliance. It is not just about meeting milestones but about nurturing a lifelong love of learning and inspiring brilliance in all its forms.
Bede’s Preparatory School
Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne
East Sussex BN20 7XL
T 01323 734222
prep.school@bedes.org bedes.org
SUPPORTING LEARNING AT HOME
At Bede’s Pre-Prep, we believe that strong links between home and school are vital for your child’s progress and development. Each child is issued with a school reading book carefully matched to their phonics knowledge and reading ability, supporting the teaching and learning taking place in class. We encourage children to read at home at least four times a week, fostering a love of reading and developing essential literacy skills.
To support this, every child has a Reading Record book. This serves as a valuable communication tool between home and school, allowing parents to share their child’s progress, challenges, and successes with their teacher. Regular communication through the reading record strengthens this important partnership and ensures your child gets the most out of their reading journey.
In addition to reading, children are provided with a half-termly Homework Learning Grid, offering optional activities across English, Maths, Adventure, and Kindness. These tasks are designed to complement classroom learning, encourage creativity, and promote personal growth while offering opportunities for families to share in their child’s learning experience.
Together, we can create a seamless connection between home and school, ensuring every child feels supported, inspired, and celebrated in their achievements.
Bede’s Preparatory School
Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne
East Sussex BN20 7XL
T 01323 734222
prep.school@bedes.org bedes.org
DROP OFF AND COLLECTION
Children may be dropped off at their classroom between 8.10am and 8.25am. Lessons begin promptly at 8.40am. Collection is from outside the Holywell building at 3.50pm.
There will be a timetable sent home at the start of term from which you will be able to see the specific lessons and activities your child will be enjoying each day.
We ask that kit bags are brought in on a Monday morning and left in school until Friday.
Children may attend breakfast club, on any day, from Monday to Friday. Please email prep.school@bedes.org to book a place. Breakfast club takes place at 7.45am in the Prep School Dining Room and is supervised by Nursery and Pre-Prep staff. The children are then escorted to their classroom at approximately 8.15am.
We also offer a late stay facility until 6pm where the children have something to eat and drink and take part in after-school clubs.
Examples of the after school extra curricular offer include:
Monday: Construction Club (STEM)
Tuesday: French Club
Wednesday: Craft Club
Thursday: Sewing Club
Friday: Cosmic Kids Yoga
Bede’s Preparatory School
Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne East Sussex BN20 7XL
T 01323 734222
prep.school@bedes.org bedes.org
HOW CAN WE PREPARE?
There are many meaningful ways families can help prepare their children for joining Reception, and we are always here to offer advice and support. Starting school is an exciting milestone, and by working together, we can ensure that your child feels confident, capable, and ready to embrace this new chapter in their learning journey. If you would like tailored guidance or have any questions, please do talk to us – we are always happy to help.
One of the best ways to prepare your child for school is by encouraging independence in daily routines. Helping your child practise dressing and undressing is a fantastic place to start. Focus on tasks such as putting on their coat, fastening Velcro shoes, and managing zips and buttons. These skills will give your child a real sense of accomplishment and make everyday school activities much easier for them.
Equally important is fostering independence in self-care. Support your child in confidently using the toilet, including wiping themselves and flushing, and encourage regular handwashing. These are key life skills that will help your child feel secure and self-assured in the school environment.
Developing fine motor skills is another excellent way to prepare for Reception. Practising with scissors, threading beads, or even playing with playdough can strengthen the muscles needed for writing and other classroom tasks. If possible, encourage your child to hold a pencil correctly and practise writing their name. Even recognising their name will be incredibly helpful as they begin their school journey.
Reading together is a wonderful way to nurture a love for stories and language. Share books regularly, discuss the characters and events, and encourage your child to predict what might happen next. This not only builds a strong foundation for literacy but also enhances listening and comprehension skills. Singing nursery rhymes and playing letter and sound games can further support your child’s understanding of phonics. Remember to focus on using “pure” sounds when practising letters, as this lays the groundwork for reading and writing.
Incorporating simple maths games into everyday life can also be incredibly advantageous. Count objects around the house or on a walk, sort items by size or colour, and play games that involve identifying shapes and patterns. These activities are fun and help to build the basic numeracy skills your child will use in school.
Beyond these practical steps, it’s also important to prepare your child emotionally. Talk positively about starting school, and help them understand what to expect. Role-playing school scenarios, such as sitting on the carpet, raising their hand, or lining up, can help them feel more comfortable. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about school, and reassure them that it’s okay to feel a mix of excitement and nerves.
We understand that every child is different, and we’re here to support your family in making the transition to school as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We have a variety of resources available, from phonics games to ideas for developing independence, and we’re more than happy to offer guidance tailored to your child’s needs. Together, we can ensure that your child’s first steps into Reception are filled with confidence, joy, and a love for learning.
USEFUL CONTACT INFORMATION
Kate Gallagher
Teacher of Reception & EYFS Curriculum Lead
Anna Green Head of Reception - Year 2
Reception Class Team
School Office
kate.gallagher@bedes.org
anna.green@bedes.org
reception@bedes.org
prep.school@bedes.org
