Reception

Autumn Term

Friday 6th September 2024

Firstly, we would like to say a huge well done to all the children in Reception for the way in which they have managed their very first visits at Newlaithes. All the children have been enthusiastic, sensible and eager to get going, which has been amazing. We are going to have such a wonderful year! Secondly, we would like to say a huge thank you to all the parents. It is such a big moment, sending your child off to school. Your patience and enthusiasm has helped to make it a successful first transition week for us all.

This will be the first of our weekly Reception newsletters that will include what we have been up to in the week, as well as information such as how you can support your child at home and important dates.

Our First Week

During the Tuesday session, we all enjoyed meeting each other and exploring the classroom and outdoor area. Many children enjoyed experimenting with the water, painting, building and so much more.

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday saw lots of very grown up children saying goodbye to their family members and coming for a play by themselves. During their visits we saw problem solving, artistic creations and friendships starting to blossom. Both the outdoor and indoor spaces have been used with such enthusiasm and interest. The children even had a tour of the school, and those with older siblings have had a chance to pay them a visit! We have been really impressed by how well the children have adapted to their new classroom; helping at tidy up time, listening and joining in during our carpet sessions. They really have been amazing. I think an all-round favourite was meeting our guinea pigs, Smudge and Oreo!

Morning Routines

We kindly ask that that you say a quick and cheerful goodbye to your child each morning. Prolonged farewells can sometimes lead to children feeling more anxious or upset, making their transition into the school day more difficult. A quick goodbye helps them to settle more easily, building their confidence and independence.

Our staff are here to support your child as soon as they step into the classroom. If you notice that your child is having a particularly tough morning, please feel free to alert one of us and we will give them additional support throughout the transition into school. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us create a positive and nurturing environment for your child.

As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all children, we kindly ask that you refrain from allowing your children to play with the outdoor resources both before and after school. This helps us to maintain a secure and organised environment for everyone, particularly as we manage and prepare these resources for use throughout the day. Thank you in advance. J

Things to Remember Next Week

Below is a list of the things your child will need to bring to school next week. Thank you if you have already sent some of these into school.

• Monday 9^th - Treasure box containing 5 items of interest to your child. There will be an allocated space for these when your child comes to school on Monday.
• A named drawstring bag with a named change of clothes, including named underwear in case of accidents, to be kept at school. Again, there will be an allocated space outside the classroom for this to be placed.
• A plastic bag/bag for life for bringing work home in. This can live in the drawstring bag.
• Pair of wellies (named) to stay at school. Please place on the welly racks outside the classroom.
• Filled water bottle (named)
• Named Newlaithes book bag.
• Coat appropriate for the weather.
• Completed collection arrangement sheet
• Signed Tapestry permission letter
• Signed Home School Agreement
• Any medication needed in school eg: inhalers and epipens along with medication plan (asthma plan/allergy plan) stored in a named bag. These need to be handed into the main office. Please ensure the medication is in date.

*Please note there will be an allocated space outside of the classroom for you to place the pump bags and Treasure boxes next week.

Guinea Pigs

Oreo and Smudge love visiting the children at home. If you would like to take them home for the weekend, please let us know. We provide the things you need, including the cage. They really are great company!

Toys

Please avoid sending in any toys with your child. This will ensure there is no upset over items being lost or broken. Thanks in advice.

If you have any queries, concerns or things to celebrate then please do not hesitate to email us. You can reach us at the following email addresses:

reception@newlaithes.co.uk

We look forward to seeing the children again next week for their first full school week at Newlaithes!

Kind regards,

The Reception Team

Elizabeth (teacher), Ella (teacher), Sophie (Teaching Assistant), Halima (Teaching Assistant), Natalie (SENDCO) and Justine (teacher on Thursdays)

nb Natalie and Justine cover the classes when Elizabeth or Ella are not in class.