New guidance released today suggests that staff from schools should make visits to nurseries to meet young children before they start Reception, aiming to enhance the transition process between the two settings.
It is recommended that early years staff or child minders also participate in events like stay-and-play sessions or teddy bears’ picnics at schools to provide additional support and comfort to the children.
The Department for Education (DfE) has issued guidelines for teachers and early years staff due to concerns about children starting Reception without essential skills, such as toilet use, cutlery handling, or teeth brushing.
Under the new guidance, collaboration between school staff and nursery workers is encouraged to ensure a smooth transition for children moving between educational settings. Parents are being informed by ministers that the primary school offer day marks the beginning of their child’s school journey.
Nursery workers are advised to engage children by reading books about starting school or showing them photos of classrooms to help them familiarize themselves with the new environment.
Furthermore, the guidance suggests that educators in all settings should collaborate to encourage children to be independent in using the toilet, listening to stories or instructions, and managing their own belongings.
Keir Starmer has set a target for 75% of five-year-olds to be school-ready upon starting Reception by 2028.
While 67.7% of children were deemed school-ready in 2024, recent data from leading early years charity Kindred indicates a decrease to 63%, with 37% of children unprepared for school. However, the Government reports an increase to 68.3%.
Labour’s latest recommendations coincide with a national campaign on school readiness spearheaded by renowned teacher and rapper MC Grammar. This campaign includes a song offering practical advice to parents on developing essential skills at home, such as dressing independently and following instructions.
Kindred, with support from the DfE, has also released guidance on equipping children with the necessary skills for starting school.
The implementation of Labour’s Best Start Family Hubs nationwide will provide parenting support, healthcare services, and assistance with children’s development, along with guidance on managing screen time at home for families.
Olivia Bailey from Early Education stated, “Upon receiving their school placement, families should receive support with simple, practical methods to help their child build confidence, independence, and the necessary skills for the classroom.
“By fostering closer collaboration between schools, nurseries, childminders, and families, we can ensure that every child starts off strongly – arriving at school feeling settled and prepared to learn.”
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