Nursery education is non-statutory but has become an ‘entitlement’ for all 3 and 4 year olds whose parents want it. Children are entitled to 2.5 hours of free education per day during term–time. Parents can choose whether their child will receive nursery education in school, in a day nursery, a pre-school or their childminder’s home*. In Stoke on Trent children are usually admitted to a nursery school or class during the September following their third birthday.
The first days and weeks that a child spends in any setting are an important time. Early success is vital regardless of the child’s stage of development if children are to ‘continue to be interested, excited and motivated to learn’. (Foundation Stage Curriculum Guidance page 32)
It is important that everyone involved with the child supports his or her transition to school. In order to do this we must find as many effective ways as possible to share information. One effective way is to share written records or portfolios of work.
In order to support this, the Local Authority, in partnership with schools and early years settings, is developing a set of standard documents to support children’s transition to school in Stoke on Trent.
This documentation at present consists of a folder called ‘I’m Starting School’ and two booklets. One booklet, called ‘This book is about me’ is designed to be completed at home by the child with his or her parents and carers. The second booklet is provided for completion by pre-school or childcare practitioners and is called ‘A record of my progress’.
The intention is that children will share the completed booklets with their keyworker. This will not only help to ensure that the child’s individual needs and preferences are a focus for conversation, but also demonstrate to the child that writing can be used to share information. The illustration shows a sample page from the family booklet.
The underlying principle of this approach to children’s transition to school is that the starting point for the receiving practitioners is the child and everything he or she brings to school. While his or her progress against age norms is important it cannot be the first reference if early success is to be ensured.
For more information about the development of the transition booklets you are welcome to contact Sue King, Early Years Consultant on 01782 233837.
* Settings other than schools must be registered with the Local Authority as eligible to receive Nursery Education Grant (NEG) funding.
