Education and learning - 5-11

Most children start reception full-time in September, after their fourth birthday.

For example, if your child turns four in July, they'll usually start school in September that same year. 

You may want to delay your child's start date if you feel they are not ready. However, all children must be in full-time education by the time they reach compulsory school age, which falls on either the 31 December, 31 March or 31 August following their fifth birthday. 

If you are concerned about your child starting reception class, you should talk to the headteacher of the primary school they will be attending (or the schools you want to apply for). They will explain how the school can support your child as they move into reception class.

Your child may already have learned the basic skills they need for school at home or in a childcare setting. Below are some helpful websites that have further information about starting school: 

• the Best Start in Life website
• BBC website
• The Oxford Owl website

Try to prepare your child for what will happen in school and encourage their independence. Talk to your child's teacher and school support staff, especially if your child has concerns or family circumstances change. The more they know, the more they can help. They want your child to be happy at school. 

If your child has a learning disability, you may have extra concerns about them starting school. Talk to your child's teacher or special educational needs coordinator (SENCo).

Starting school is one of the most important milestones in every child's life. To help you decide which schools to apply for, you can arrange tours and view their website and Ofsted reports.  

You can find out more about your local schools, read out parents' guides and find out how and when you need to apply for a school place on our website.

Regular attendance at school is important to help children achieve and reach their potential. You are responsible for making sure your child goes to school. 

If your child cannot attend school for any reason, you should contact the school straight away.

You may decide to educate your child at home. This is known as elective home education and will involve making alternative arrangements.

Your child may be entitled to free school meals if you are in receipt of certain benefits.

Bullying should be reported to your child's school. However, if you are not happy with the outcome, you can report it to us.

Our SEND Hub can provide information on statutory education health and care plans for children and young people who have special educational needs (SEND).

You can also visit out Educational Psychology Service, which supports young people's learning, development and belonging.