Preschool - Reflecting on our favourite memories from the year

The final term of the academic year is always jam-packed. It’s a term of excitement, perhaps a few nerves, and a lot of fun. Much like the rest of the school, in Preschool we have been reflecting on our favourite memories from the year.

For our Pre-Reception children in particular, these are a momentous few weeks, as they have been getting ready for the leap into “big school”! We have been working closely with the Reception team to ensure that the transition process for our children is as smooth as possible. The Pre-Reception children have loved spending time with the older cohorts on the field after lunch, sharing stories with the current reception class, going over to assemblies together and even collecting their own lunch from the hatch in the kitchen!

Despite the rain on the day, the Teddy Bear’s picnic event was a huge success. Our current Pre-Reception children joined Mr Barber and Mrs Rivalland for an indoor picnic and eagerly welcomed new friends that will be joining them in their new classes in September. The children were really enthusiastic and full of excitement when telling us about the event, the new friends they had made and most importantly who their new teacher would be for the next academic year.

Whilst this was happening, the younger cohorts within Preschool had an “in-house” transition morning which included having a go at some next-level phonics and an assortment of games and activities. As well as spending time doing something new with Miss Bee, the children spent the morning welcoming Mrs Starkey to Gateway School and showing Miss Cockle the ropes of Preschool, ready for September. The children loved getting to know these new faces as well as talking about themselves and the things they like to do!

In addition to providing a fun-filled day for the children, the efforts invested in these transition days hold great significance for the Early Years team. By establishing and nurturing familiar relationships in advance, the team ensures a seamless beginning to the next academic year.

The eagerly anticipated Sports Day was the perfect end to the Summer term! The preschool community was brimming with excitement as we finally had the opportunity to put our hard work into action for this year's sporting event. It was lovely to see the incredible turnout of families who came to cheer on our children. With the dedicated assistance of our amazing PE team and our enthusiastic Year 5 helpers, we enjoyed a delightful morning. The children displayed immense pride in their individual achievements and reveled in the spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship. The hat and sunglasses race quickly became a beloved favourite, along with the exhilarating long jump event.

As is tradition, the academic year is rounded off by a celebration event for the Pre-reception children. As well as a graduation ceremony, the children showcased their singing talent to their parents. We have had lots of fun learning our carefully curated songs with Mr Mitchener and marking an end in our Preschool journey.

As the year draws to a close we sadly say goodbye to some of our children moving on to new schools and some of our staff team. Mrs Mackay and Miss Noakes have thoroughly enjoyed our time at Gateway and getting to know your wonderful children, watching them grow and planning fun activities. We wish you all the best for the future and hope you have a wonderful summer. We look forward to seeing some familiar faces during our holiday provision!