Starting school is one of the most exciting milestones in a child’s life — and one of the biggest moments for families too. Every September, our Reception classroom here at The Webber Independent School comes alive with curious minds, bright smiles and the beginning of a lifelong love of learning. For many parents, making the decision about where to start that journey can feel overwhelming — and as Head of Prep, I truly understand why.
At Webber, we believe the early years are mission critical: they lay the foundations for academic confidence, emotional resilience and joyful exploration. Our Reception provision is thoughtfully designed to balance the right mix of structure and play, nurture and challenge, freedom and focus. Children learn to read, write and think with purpose — alongside play-based discovery that supports independence, creativity and social confidence.
National evidence shows that many children begin school missing some of the foundational skills teachers expect — from self-care habits to focus and communication — putting pressure on classroom time and adjustment. Recent reporting highlights concerns that up to 40% of children start without key early learning readiness skills, such as sustained attention and independence in the classroom environment. This makes the quality of early education more important than ever — not just for academic outcomes, but for children’s confidence, enthusiasm and sense of belonging. At Webber, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which supports development across communication, literacy, numeracy, physical skills and personal confidence — ensuring every child gets off to a strong, joyful start.
But Reception at The Webber is about so much more than curriculum. It’s about feeling part of something from day one. Our classrooms are welcoming and vibrant, our teachers are degree-qualified and deeply committed to each child’s success, and our small class sizes ensure that your child is known, understood and genuinely seen.
We also place huge value on partnership with families. From parent-teacher communication to shared celebrations — from phonics workshops to performances and special family events — we want you to feel informed, connected and involved in your child’s learning journey every step of the way.
For busy working parents, we provide flexibility too. With wraparound care from 7:30am to 6:00pm, holiday clubs and a warm, supportive environment that extends beyond the school day, Webber is here to make family life work as well as supporting strong academics.
I invite you to come and see what makes our Reception so special. Whether you join our Reception Virtual Information Evening on the 11th February, an Open Day or simply spend some time walking our bright, inspiring corridors and outdoor spaces, you’ll discover children who are eager to learn, happy to explore and confident to try new things.
Starting school should feel exciting, supportive — and just right. At Webber, we’re proud to help families make that leap with confidence, curiosity and joy.
Book your place today and let us help your child ready for liftoff in Reception.
