Starting school is a significant milestone in a child’s life. As professionals working with young children and families, your role is crucial in supporting children and their networks with this transition.

The 2025 national 'Starting Reception' guidance provides a clear framework to help children develop the skills needed for a confident start in Reception, to enable them to thrive and grow from the moment they step through the school doors.

The concept is designed to enable everyone supporting children on this journey, from parents and guardians, to early years and school staff, to have a shared and cohesive understanding of what school readiness looks like.

In Doncaster, we have been working to develop a strong offer of support and guidance around Primary School readiness, and alongside dedicated formal support routes offered by services locally, we will also be working hard to communicate the Starting Reception campaign to parents, carers and families in Doncaster.

The key focus of this campaign will be around informing families of what school readiness look like, educating them on the importance of children starting school with a solid foundation of skills, but most importantly, empowering and inspiring parents to engage in their children's journey to skills by incorporating accessible and inclusive activities at home or in their daily routines. We will also be raising awareness of the formal support routes should families need to access them.

Please visit the below website for more information

Supporting Families with Primary School Readiness: Guidance for Professionals

Understanding the ‘Starting Reception’ Definition

The 'Starting Reception' guidance focuses on four key areas:

1. Growing Independence: Encouraging self-care skills such as dressing, toileting, and eating independently.
2. Building Relationships and Communicating: Developing social skills, emotional expression, and effective communication.
3. Physical Development: Enhancing fine and gross motor skills through play and daily activities.
4. Healthy Routines: Establishing consistent sleep patterns, hygiene practices, and screen time management.

You can find out more about these key areas and further information under each theme in the ‘Starting Reception’ guidance document.