Parent Focus Group - September 2025

A summary of the discussion at the Parent Focus Group – on a theme of ‘ transition.’

We run these focus groups a few times a year and is open to all. It is always on a different theme and is always advertised on the list of dates below. If you can’t attend and want to contribute your suggestions and ideas on the theme please e mail the school office.

The main points raised where transition worked well:

• The Reception and Nursery open events, and the stay and play sessions.  This was a good opportunity for children to spend time in their classroom areas, as well as a good opportunity for parents and carers to meet the teachers.
• The posters all about the children’s new teacher ( for all year groups. ) This helped children remember the teacher over the summer holiday.
• The transition visits to the new classrooms with their new teacher for the children going into Year 1 and 2. Children went home talking positively about these sessions.
• The class whatsapp groups have helped parents remember small things to aid transition.
• Tapestry in Year 1 is good, as it follows on from reception ( appreciating the different way it is used as the curriculum is different. )

In addition to the above; Mrs Westall talked about the arrangements we have in place for transition to Junior School from Year 2.

The main points raised where transition can be improved:

• The Year group parents meetings that we hold in September could be in July, instead– that would be a good way for parents to see the door their child will come into on the first day, as well seeing the classroom and meeting the teacher. We like this idea and will be actioning this in July.
• School dinner menus to be shared in Year 1, like they were in Reception ( this should be available via the parent app now )

The general feeling was that children have settled into their new classes well, the staff have made them feel welcome and are available to chat if needed.