By Yvonne Barr, Head of Early Years & Reception teacher

Starting school is often described as a big milestone. But for a child, it shouldn’t feel overwhelming. It should feel familiar, safe and like a natural continuation of the journey they are on.

At Great Ballard, that sense of belonging begins long before the first day. From early visits to events such as Mothers and Others, May Day and our much-loved Teddy Bears’ Picnic, children and their families are welcomed into a community where everyone is known.

When children feel at home, they arrive with quiet confidence, ready to explore and to learn. We take time to build relationships, establish routines and help every child feel that they belong here, knowing that this is where curiosity really begins.

Learning grows from real, shared experiences. Children here might raise ducklings, candle eggs and watch embryos develop. They might search for moles in the playground and explore their habitat or invent an underground language for them. By following their own curiosities, they are inspired to ask big questions about what they see and why things happen.

One group, after exploring different bird nests, decided that bigger birds must build bigger nests. When they were shown a wasp’s nest, this theory didn’t quite hold. After some thoughtful discussion, one child concluded that wasps build larger nests not because they are bigger, but “so their families and friends can join them.”

It’s in moments like these that you really see learning take shape, children thinking aloud, questioning ideas and making sense of the world together.

Each day begins with a chance to reflect and plan, giving children a sense of ownership. Alongside this, there is plenty of time to explore independently, test ideas and take small, important risks. The Great Outdoors plays a central role here, whether building, climbing, digging or simply observing, children are constantly developing confidence and independence.

Of course, starting school comes with moments of uncertainty. But these are a natural (and important) part of growing up. With small class sizes and expert support, every child is encouraged to try again, build resilience and find their feet at their own pace.

At its heart, starting school isn’t about rushing ahead. It’s about creating a strong, steady foundation, children who feel confident, curious and ready for what comes next.

Because when children are given the right start, they don’t just settle, they belong, and when they belong, they can thrive.