What to Look for When Choosing a Pre-School or Pre-Reception Class for Your Child

Jacqueline Atkins, Head of Felsted Pre-Prep

One day you’re getting the hang of changing a nappy and the next you’re looking for a pre-school! If this sounds like you, Jacqueline Atkins, Head of Felsted Pre-Prep, has all the advice you need to choose the right pre-school or pre-reception class for your little one. 

The world is full of wonder and delight for a three-year-old! Going to pre-school or joining a pre-reception class is just the start of an incredible adventure for your child. They’ll start developing the skills they need as they grow – confidence, independence and a curiosity that will make sure learning is something they are excited about every day.

 

 

But there’s a lot to think about when you’re choosing the right pre-school or pre-reception class for your child:

What’s the difference between a standalone pre-school and a school pre-reception class?

A pre-school is a place just for children up to school age and, while some are set near to schools, many are established in their own separate buildings, or in community buildings, such as village or church halls. Pre-reception classes are part of a primary, prep or all-through school and provide a class specifically for children aged under four. Felsted Pre-Reception is part of the Pre-Prep department of Felsted School – an award winning independent school for girls and boys up to the age of 18 - so children are able to use the school’s facilities for outdoor activities, sports and arts, with sessions taught by subject specialist teachers. It’s a smooth transition for children to progress from the pre-reception class to the reception class of the same school.
 

 

What should my child be learning in pre-school or pre-reception?

At this age, joyful inquiry is the most powerful catalyst for development, ensuring that every child remains deeply invested in their own learning journey. At Felsted our passion is to encourage our youngest learners to be curious about the world and enjoy finding out more.  Felsted Pre-Reception runs a free-flow curriculum - the skills of reading and writing are introduced very gently and there are also exciting ‘big question’ activities that bring together the beginnings of all sorts of topics, like thinking about how you would train a dragon, or cook kebabs for the Hungry Caterpillar. These are designed to get your little one’s imagination and curiosity firing.

What other activities should be on offer?

Developing your child’s creativity and physicality are very important at this age. Self-expression through artistic activities, such as drawing and painting, should always be encouraged and all children need to stretch their bodies in order to grow fit and strong. At Felsted Pre-Reception, children take part in PE, swimming and Forest School sessions with specialist teachers, who help them to develop co-ordination and confidence, while music and rhythmic activities help with listening, timing and body awareness too.
 

 

Will my child be well looked after?

Making sure your child is safe and properly cared for is the top priority. It’s extremely important to check that a pre-school or pre-reception class complies with regulations, has a good inspection report and that parents of children already attending are satisfied.

When do pre-schools and pre-receptions generally operate?

Pre-schools usually operate during school term-times, but some do run all year round. Pre-reception classes almost always run during their school term-time. At Felsted Pre-Reception, the day starts at 8am and finishes at 3pm, which is very convenient for parents with older children in the school. Morning sessions run 8.30am to 1pm, and children attend at least five mornings a week, or three full days with five full days’ attendance from January. Lunch and snacks are included.

 

What if I need an extended pre-school or pre-reception day?

Some pre-schools and pre-receptions offer care before and after school. To help busy families at Felsted Pre-Reception, there is the option of an extended day with a Breakfast Club for Pre-Reception children, starting at 7.30am, and After School Care until 4.15pm (half session) or 5.45pm (full session).

Can I use Childcare Vouchers for pre-school and pre-reception?

Some pre-schools and pre-receptions accept Childcare Vouchers – this is an important question to ask when you’re enquiring. Others, including Felsted Pre-Reception, do not accept Childcare Vouchers but offer other discounts instead, so it’s always worth checking.
 

Going to pre-school or pre-reception is a crucial step in your child’s education. It’s a great experience that will really prepare them as they develop their independence and confidence – and get ready for starting school.

To find out more about Felsted, come and visit us – we run Open Days throughout the year and also offer individual tours for families, so just contact our friendly Admissions team to start your journey to Felsted.
 

Visit our Open Mornings page to learn more