We are so pleased you have chosen Stanton Cross Primary school for your child. Please join us for an information evening on Thursday 4th June at 6pm.
A welcome letter from Mrs Albert,
Dear Parents/ Carers,
I want you to know, I know how you feel. Your child is about to start school and you’re not quite sure how this has come round so quickly. You could swear it was only a few months ago that they were born, but somehow you made it through the sleepless nights, weaning, tantrums, potty training, navigated the world of playgroups and toddler classes and here you are, about to be a school parent.
They might well be ready. You can see it in their excited little face. But you’re not. You’re not ready to let go of their hand just yet. You’re not ready to say goodbye to the freedom that nursery brings with them – holidays whenever you feel like it, impromptu picnics on sunny days, lazy mornings just because you can. But they have to go, the time is right for them and they are ready for their next adventure.
Here’s what you can expect in this first year:
You’ll send your child into school all pristine, clean and tidy. They’ll come back out dirty, socks rolled down, shoes scuffed, but oh-so-happy.
This first year in school is so important for your child; they will make their first lot of friends all by themselves, they will become independent, they will learn to self-regulate, they will have experiences and enrichment opportunities that they may not have experienced before and they will thrive.
At Stanton Cross Primary we believe in the mantra ‘Achieve Extraordinary Things’, and that it what we know our children will do. We support our children to learn new skills which enhance their learning journey. We will invite parents in, there will be workshops on areas such as maths, phonics, reading and writing. We will also have stay and play sessions for you to be able to explore the school and classroom with your child, giving you an insight into their learning.
There will be homework. You can expect reading books, phonics work, maths, projects, any or all of them. You’ll find your child’s style and approach to homework quite quickly, so just go with them and persevere. Remember, all school staff are available if you want any support or guidance on this and so, please just ask…
There will be letters! Remember to check through your child’s book bag every evening as it’s rare that we go a few days without a letter coming home. You will also find your child’s reading record in their book bag- try to hear your child read at least 3 times a week if you can. School staff will also hear your child read weekly and write it in the reading diary.
You will also receive a fortnightly newsletter from me, Mrs Albert, the Head Teacher. Remember, to make a note of all up-and-coming dates so that you are aware- we will try to give you as much notice as possible.
There will be school trips, discos, assemblies, fairs, non-uniform days, stay and plays, World Book Day dress up, coffee mornings, Nativities, PTA meetings and events and so much more.
You will adjust so easily to the new routine. Two weeks in and the school run will feel old-hat, you’ll know what you are doing and what to expect, and the school gate faces will already be so familiar and friendly. Time will fly.
But what about the most important person in this period of change… your child? They will tell you very little of their day when you ask them each pick up. They will tell you they have spent the day ‘playing’ and you will most probably be told a lot about lunchtime and play. Make sure you log in to Tapestry as this will be able to keep you informed of your child’s day/ week/ term.
The most important thing for me as the Head Teacher of Stanton Cross Primary is that your child is safe and happy. They will grow, they will learn, and they will most probably amaze you. You will still remain the centre of their world but school will now also be a big part of their next journey.
They will still be the child that you cherish so much now. They will still want your cuddles. They will still come to you when they are hurt or afraid. They will still love having tickle time with you. They will still want time with you baking, crafting, gardening, reading, playing and whatever else it is that you enjoy now. There will still be time for adventures, trips to the park, and snuggly movie afternoons.
You are not losing your baby, you’re simply taking off on a new adventure together. Let the new chapter begin…
I am thrilled that you have decided to send your child to Stanton Cross Primary and I can not wait to be part of your little ones journey too.
See you at the gate.
Mrs Melissa Albert