Long Ridings Primary School

Foundation Stage starters 2026

Welcome to Long Ridings Primary School

We are delighted you are considering Long Ridings Primary School for your child. Starting school is a significant milestone in your child’s life, and we are committed to making this transition as smooth and positive as possible for both children and parents.

Long Ridings Primary School is situated on a spacious site comprising two interconnected buildings, providing a cohesive and inclusive primary education from the early years through to Year 6. As a two-form entry school, we are able to offer a nurturing and continuous learning journey within one secure and well-resourced environment, ensuring that children can grow, thrive, and progress confidently throughout their primary education.

A Warm and Nurturing Start

At Long Ridings, our Foundation Stage team works hard to create a warm, welcoming, and stimulating environment where children feel safe, happy, and excited to learn. We focus on building strong relationships from the outset to ensure that every child feels valued and confident as they begin their school journey.

New Starters Tours

To help you prepare for this new chapter, we host New Starters Tours for families joining Foundation Stage. This is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Meet the Foundation Stage staff and Headteacher

• Explore the learning environment

Our Tour dates can be booked using this link   Please book one ticket per family which allows two adults to attend the tour. 

 Wednesday 24th September at 9.30am 

• Meet the headteacher, deputy headteacher 
• Find out more about our school vision 

We understand that every child is unique. Our phased transition plan allows children to settle in gradually, with a flexible and child-led approach to support their emotional wellbeing. Our staff spend time getting to know each child and work closely with parents and carers throughout the settling-in period.

Communication and Support

We believe in building strong partnerships with parents. Regular communication is maintained through:

• Parent meetings and information sessions

• Weekly newsletters and updates

• Open-door policy for any questions or concerns

Learning in the Early Years

The Foundation Stage curriculum is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Children learn through play, exploration, and carefully planned adult-led and child-initiated activities across key areas of learning and development. Our focus is on nurturing curiosity, creativity, confidence, and independence.

Getting Ready for School

We encourage parents to support their child in becoming ‘school ready’ by:

• Practising self-care skills (e.g. toileting, dressing, eating independently)

• Encouraging listening and turn-taking at home

• Sharing books and stories together

• Talking positively about starting school

Admissions

Admissions to Long Ridings Primary School are managed by Essex County Council. Applications open in November 2025 and close 15th January 2026. Please visit their website for key dates, application details, and further guidance on the admissions process. https://www.essex.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/schools/admissions/starting-school 

We are excited to welcome you to our school family and look forward to working together to give your child the very best start to their educational journey.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school office or speak with a member of the Foundation Stage team.