Advice for starting school

Who to talk to

If your child already goes to a pre school or nursery, you can discuss it with setting. They will have knowledge and information about your child, including:

How your child has progressed with their learning and development.
How independent your child is.
Their friendships and relationships with other children and adults.
How any additional needs have affected them.

You can also talk to the school your child is going to attend. They will be able to discuss what will happen when your child starts at the school.

Getting Ready for Reception 2026

Hosts

Wokingham Borough Council & Amy Dixon
Assistant headteacher from Hillside Primary School

Location

4th February 2026, 18:15 - 19:30 at Hawkedon Primary School
11th February 2026, 18:00 - 19:00 online (Please do not book after 9th Feb) recording will be sent out to parents who have booked on

The aim of the session is to provide information of what school readiness looks like, and advice and support for parents on helping their children prepare for school.

The sessions are run by an experienced school education team, school nursing, special educational needs professionals and members of the early years professional team.

The content of both sessions will be the same, the only difference is that one is a face-to-face 4th Feb, and, the other is online 11th Feb. Please encourage parents/carers to book onto the session they would like to attend.

Book your space for Reception 2026

Your child's learning

Every school, nursery and preschool follows the Early Years Foundation Framework. This sets principles which every setting follows to make sure your child receives quality early education and childcare no matter which setting they attend or when they start school.

Children with additional needs

You can find out what support each school provides for children with additional needs by visiting our Local Offer pages.

Childcare

If you need childcare before or after school, you can find out if your school has a before and after school club in our families directory.

You can also use a childminder. You can use our families directory to find out which childminders drop off and pick up from which school.

Useful resources:

These online resources provide useful tips and information to help your child feel confident and ready for school: