Got your child’s school place? What happens next
Got your child’s school place?
This is usually the point where it starts to feel real, and then comes the question…
What do I actually need to do now?
There isn’t a long list, just a few simple things that are worth focusing on between now and September.
What to do after you get your school place
Before thinking about anything else, just deal with the basics:
- Follow the instructions in your offer email (this usually includes confirming your place)
- Keep an eye out for emails or letters from the school
- Make a note of any key dates (transition sessions, meetings, uniform info)
If the school you’ve been offered isn’t the one you were hoping for, you can usually appeal or join a waiting list. There should be information about how to do this in your offer email or letter. If you want to look into it further, the Government guide explains how the appeals process works.
What actually matters before September
It’s easy to feel like you should be doing more than you really need to.
Most schools aren’t expecting children to arrive already knowing lots academically. What tends to make the biggest difference is much more everyday than that:
• getting used to simple routines
• managing things like using the toilet and washing hands independently
• listening and following basic instructions
• having the confidence to join in, even if they’re unsure
This kind of thing builds up gradually over time and comes from day-to-day life.
If you’re wondering what “ready for school” actually looks like, this guide explains it simply: Getting ready for school: a parent’s guide
Simple things you can do at home
You don’t need to turn your living room into a classroom or set aside lots of time for this.
Small things here and there are more than enough, like:
- recognising and writing their name
- taking turns in games
- counting things as you go about your day
- listening and responding in conversations
It all adds up.
If you’d like something ready-made, try our free school readiness activity pack.
There are lots of simple activities you can use when you want something quick and easy:
Free Starting School Activity Pack: Starting School Made Simple
One last thing
Some children will seem completely ready.
Some won’t.
Most are somewhere in the middle.
Schools are used to all of them.
There’s still plenty of time between now and September.
You might also find this helpful
If you want to look a bit more closely at specific areas, these are a good place to start:
Getting ready for school
- Getting ready for school: A parent’s guide
- Your first day at school checklist
- Starting school: Hints and tips
Building key skills
- How to help children learn to write their name
- What is Subitising? A Parent’s Guide incl. FREE Subitising Worksheets
- How phonics games can support early reading
- Starting School in September? Play these FREE Learning Games!
Confidence and settling in