From making new friends to discovering new interests, school life offers a whole world of opportunity. Children thrive on routines, shared experiences, and the chance to explore their independence, but we can help them navigate this journey:

1.Keep talk about school relaxed and cheerful, refer to their teacher by name, and remind them of the fun they will have.

2.Practise skills, such as dressing, putting on shoes, using cutlery and going to the toilet.

3.Parent contact lists are useful to arrange playdates.

4.Pack school bags and lay out uniform the night before. Keep bedtime relaxed and make the morning routine familiar and reassuring.

5.Let your child know it will be a quick kiss and a hug goodbye, as their teacher will have lots of fun planned. Show them where you will meet at the end of the day to hear all about it!

Our Nursery children attend two settling-in sessions and receive an All About Me form, so we can prepare their favourite toys and activities. Older children enjoy two taster days and are matched with at least two buddies, and often more – like the time a whole year group of girls rallied to welcome a nervous new starter!

For more info follow @stfaithsprep, join free Tiny Toots pre-school music sessions every Friday during term time, or visit stfaithsprep.com