What is school readiness? School readiness refers to whether a child is ready to make an easy and successful transition into school. School readiness can be actively facilitated with a little forward planning to ensure that children regularly participate in activities that develops the appropriate skills required to help the transition to and progression at school. While many people think of academics (e.g. writing their name, counting to 10, knowing the colours) as the important school readiness skills, school readiness actually refers to a much broader range of skills. In addition to some academic basics, school readiness skills also include self-care (independent toileting and opening lunch boxes), attention and concentration, physical skills (e.g. having the endurance to sit upright for an entire school day), emotional regulation, language skills and play and social skills.

Most of the children who attend Paddocks Pre-school move on to St. Johns Primary School or St. Nicholas Infant School, both situated in Wallingford. We work very closely with both schools to ensure a smooth and easy transition.  This includes visits from the Foundation Stage teachers as well as the children visiting the schools. Transitions are also aided through our interactions with the schools for example through the annual invitations for our children to watch the Key Stage 1 Christmas / summer productions and Foundation Stage sports days.

More information on School Readiness can be found on the Oxfordshire County Council webpage and in the following publications: Families School Readiness Booklet, Road to School & Oxford Owl Starting School Guide.

Parent/carers of children born between 1 September 2017 and 31 August 2018 (inclusive) will need to apply for a primary or infant school place for their children to start school in September 2022.

Applications for primary or infant school places for September 2022 have now opened, and you can apply Online.

The deadline for receipt of completed school applications is 15 January 2022.