A Warrington school is playing a lead role in a nationwide government push to ensure that more reception children are ready to thrive as they begin school.
Evelyn Street Primary Academy and Nursery – part of Warrington Primary Academy Trust (WPAT) – has been appointed as a lead school in the Department for Education’s new Reception Network Programme.
Just five schools in the North West – and 45 schools across England – have been chosen for the initiative.
The programme was designed by the Department for Education (DfE) to strengthen Reception year provision, which is a key ambition of the department’s new Schools White Paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving.
As a Reception Network Lead School, Evelyn Street will offer a range of support to schools across the area so that more children arrive in Reception and transition into Key Stage 1 with the strong foundations they need for high levels of attainment.
The support will include sharing evidence-based resources and approaches with other schools to strengthen early years provision, building networks and hosting open days and visits to demonstrate effective reception year practice.
A DfE spokesperson said: “Our landmark schools white paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving, sets out the importance of great reception practice in supporting both high achievement for all and improved early action on additional needs.
“Our work on reception will ensure that more children are arriving into reception and transitioning into Key Stage 1 with strong foundations for achieving high levels of attainment as they progress through school.
“Reception year represents a crucial stage in children’s early learning, and this programme will support schools in accessing strong, evidence informed practice across the sector.”
Kay Tobin, Assistant Headteacher and Early Years Foundation Stage Lead at Evelyn Street Primary Academy and Nursery, said: “Being chosen by the Department for Education to be part of this network is recognition for the great work being done here and across the trust in preparing children to thrive in reception. We’re looking forward to working with schools across the region on this important initiative.”
Evelyn Street Primary Academy and Nursery is part of Warrington Primary Academy Trust (WPAT), a community of nine schools in Warrington, Widnes, Cheshire West and Cheshire. WPAT was formed in 2016 and quickly developed a national reputation for excellent standards. WPAT provides staff at all its schools with support, expertise and professional development so they can provide the very best education standards for their children.
For more information on reception networks CLICK HERE
