Starting primary school is really exciting but it can be scary at the same time for both children and parents.
Spending time talking to each other about what will happen at school, for example making new friends, playing, learning, will help to reduce any anxiety you and your child may have.
Check out our school readiness page to make sure you are prepared for the next stage in your child’s life.
Advice for parents
The first day at primary school is a huge milestone for both your child and you.
The idea of ‘big school’ will be very appealing for some children, but it can also be quite frightening. Spending time talking to your child about what will happen at school, for example making new friends, playing, learning, will help to reduce any anxiety your child may have.
Remember that teachers and other school staff are familiar with children who are worried in their first week at school and are there to support both the child and you.
School checklist:
- Immunisations: Your child should have had their pre-school boosters and MMR vaccinations.
- Your child must be registered with a GP and a dentist. You can find your local GP surgeries and dentists, on NHS Choices
- The school health questionnaire is sent to parents of children in reception year, year 7, year 9 and year 12 . Make sure you return this to your child’s school when you receive it.
- If your child has to take regular medication, please make sure their school is informed of this. Medication should be handed in to the designated area in your child’s school and it is your responsibility to make sure it is in date.
Advice for kids
Starting primary school is really exciting but it can be scary at the same time.
Remember, the first day at primary school is an important day for everyone so the other children in your class will be feeling the same.
At primary school you will do lots of new things!
- You will make new friends
- You will play new games and activities
- You will learn new things like reading, writing, numbers and spelling.
On your first day, you will meet your teacher. They look after you in class. Your school nurse also helps to look after you at school.
Your school nurse helps you to stay healthy and happy. They will visit you at school and talk to you about how you can look after yourself. You can ask them any questions that you want to.
Your school nurse might carry out some tests with you too. For example, in reception class, they will do a test to check your hearing.
Remember
It’s really normal to feel nervous when you start school. If you’re worried about it, you should speak to an adult you trust. If you have any problems or you’re feeling worried at school, you can talk to your teacher and they will help you.