Website of the UK government
Please note that this website has a UK government accesskeys system.
Main menu
Page menu
Parents
Finding out about your child's primary school
To help prepare your child for primary school, it is worth finding out as much about the school before the first day. You may want to know about the school's ethos and policies, what you child will need and how your child will learn.
Getting information about primary schools
You can find out about your local school by getting a prospectus from the education department of your local authority or directly from the school. It may also be useful to talk to parents who already have children at the school.
Many schools organise open days or evenings, which will give you the opportunity to ask questions and see inside your child's school.
How your child will learn
In the first year of primary school the Foundation Stage continues and so your child should encounter the same sort of learning and activities they were used to in their early years setting. The next two years of primary school are called Key Stage 1 and the next four years are known as Key Stage 2. For each of these stages, the National Curriculum lays down which subjects are taught.
Finding out how teaching and learning takes place can help you support your child to make the most of their time at school.
You may wish to find out about:
- methods used for teaching and learning
- school rules
- school policies, for example, homework, behaviour, child protection, attendance, bullying
- facilities available, for example, a library or sports facilities
- how you will be informed about your child's progress
- getting involved in your child's education, for example, through parent-teacher associations, or by becoming a governor
- support available if your child has special educational needs
The daily routine
Going to school will probably involve a change to your child's routine.
It helps to find out:
- when the school day starts and finishes
- what the usual daily routine is
- what happens at play times and lunch times
- what arrangements the school has to help your child settle before the first day
- whether the school offers additional childcare, including breakfast or after school clubs
- the term and holiday dates
- what happens to your child if they are ill in school
- how long it takes to get ready for, and travel to, school
- whether you need to buy anything before your child starts school, for example a uniform or special clothing for games or art
More useful links
Additional links
Access keys
