Abbotskerswell Starting School
Starting school is a very special milestone, and at Abbotskerswell Primary School we are committed to ensuring every child and family feels welcomed, supported and excited about the journey ahead.
We believe that children thrive when they feel safe, valued and part of a caring community. From their very first day, we help our youngest learners understand what it means to be Ready, Respectful and Safe, creating a positive environment where everyone can learn and succeed together.
Our school values encourage children to become:
- Happy learners who enjoy coming to school and embrace new opportunities.
- Successful learners who strive to achieve their very best.
- Responsible citizens who make positive choices and contribute to their community.
- Respectful individuals who show kindness, consideration and understanding towards others.
We recognise that starting school is an important step for the whole family. Our dedicated staff work closely with parents, carers and pre-school providers to ensure each child makes a smooth and confident transition into school life. We value strong partnerships with families and believe that working together provides the best foundation for every child's future success.
At Abbotskerswell Primary School, children are encouraged to be curious, resilient and ambitious. Through our engaging curriculum, nurturing environment and high expectations, we help every child develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to flourish.
We look forward to welcoming you to our school family and sharing the excitement of these precious early years of learning.
At Abbotskerswell Primary School, our children are Ready, Respectful and Safe, growing into Happy, Successful, Responsible and Respectful young people.
Starting School at Abbotskerswell Primary School
We aim to make transition from pre-school to reception a happy and smooth experience for both children and parents. To achieve this we provide a number of opportunities for children and parents to get to know the school, other children, the learning environment and the staff.
Abbotskerswell Pre-School
We work closely with Abbotskerswell Pre-school throughout the year. They visit us to watch our lower school production, our sports day and for play sessions in the classroom and playground. The Puffin staff also visit the children on a number of occasions.
Other Pre-Schools
We begin visiting children who attend other pre-schools in the summer term once we receive the admissions list from Devon County Council. Please get in touch if your child attends a different pre-school and you would like them to join in with earlier transition visits.
Applying for a Place
Please visit our admissions page for information on applying for a school place:
Transition Calendar
December
Puffin class visit Abbotskerswell Pre-school to watch their Christmas show. Abbotskerswell Pre-school visit us to watch our Nativity.
January - March
Puffin (Reception Class) staff visit Abbotskerswell Pre-school throughout the spring term. Pre-school bring the children for a visit to play in the Puffin classroom.
April - May
Puffin staff visit Abbotskerswell Pre-School and also some of the children who attend other pre-schools.
June
Parents are invited to attend a transition information evening. Parents and children are also invited to a picnic at school before transition sessions begin. Abbotskerswell Pre-school attend our sports day and Puffin staff meet with the team to transfer children's records. Visits to all other children at the various pre-schools are completed.
July
All new children attend 3 morning sessions in the Puffin class with their new classmates.
September
On the first few days the children will stay for just the morning session. Then towards the end of the week they stay up until lunchtime. The children become full time at the start of the second week.