Starting at Hillside Infant School

Starting school is an exciting and important milestone for both children and their families, and we understand that it can sometimes feel a little daunting. At Hillside Infant School, we place great importance on building strong, positive relationships with our families from the very beginning.

Nursery Stay and Play sessions take place in July or December before your child starts nursery. These sessions give you the opportunity to learn more about life in Hillside Nursery, meet the staff, and get to know other families. They also help children feel confident and settled in their new environment.

Reception Stay and Play sessions are held in July, prior to children starting Reception in September. These sessions allow children to explore the Reception setting, meet the staff, and begin to feel comfortable ahead of their first day. They also help staff get to know each child before they start school.

Please note that a nursery place does not guarantee a place in Reception at Hillside Infant School. However, most children move into Reception and continue their learning journey through Hillside Infant School and on to Hillside Junior School

Nursery Settling-In Arrangements

We begin nursery with a settling-in period, during which your child will attend for part of a session. This gives your child the opportunity to become familiar with the daily routine, get to know the staff, and feel comfortable in the nursery learning environment.

Your child’s next visit will usually be for a full session (morning, afternoon or full day). However, we recognise that every child is different, and some children may need a more gradual transition into nursery.

We will always discuss arrangements with you and work together to ensure you feel happy and confident about your child’s start with us. 

Reception Settling-In Arrangements

Children usually begin Reception by attending for half days. After two half days, and if they are settling well, children will then stay for lunchtime as well.  We understand that lunchtime can feel daunting for some children as it involves a new environment and routines. After three days of mornings and lunchtimes, children will then attend Reception full time.

These settling-in sessions help children to understand the daily routine, get to know the staff, and feel comfortable and confident in their new learning environment.

We recognise that every child is different, and some children may need a more gradual transition. We will always discuss arrangements with you to ensure you feel happy and confident with your child’s start in Reception.    We aim for all children to attend full time as soon as possible and they are ready.  Teachers will communicate closely with parents and carers throughout the settling-in period to ensure that each child’s transition is positive and supportive.