Helping Families Feel Ready for Reception:
Introducing the Early Years School Readiness Transition Programme
Starting school is one of the biggest moments in a child’s early years. It brings new routines, new relationships, and a whole new world of learning. For many families, especially those with children who have additional needs, this transition can feel exciting — but also uncertain. Parents often tell us they want clearer guidance, more support, and a space where they can ask questions without feeling judged.
In response to this need, I’m pleased to introduce the Early Years School Readiness Transition Programme, launching in 2026 and delivered in partnership with Croydon Start for Life and the Family Hubs. Together, we are committed to ensuring families feel informed, supported, and confident as their children prepare to start Reception.
Why This Programme Has Been Created
The last few years have brought significant changes to early childhood. Many children missed out on typical early social experiences, routine health checks, or steady nursery attendance all of which can affect communication, social skills, emotional readiness, and independence.
Alongside this, many families are juggling additional pressures such as neurodiversity,
mental health challenges, housing instability, language barriers, or complex SEND journeys. It’s understandable that the school transition can feel overwhelming.
This programme was developed to bridge that gap — offering families clarity, community, and practical tools that genuinely help.
Our Partnership With Croydon Start for Life and Family Hubs
- reach the families who need this support most
- connect parents with trusted local services
- offer clear pathways into SEND and early years support
- ensure the programme sits within Croydon’s wider vision for inclusive early years provision
This partnership means families receive support that is consistent, joined-up, and rooted in the local community.
What the Programme Offers
- Feel confident about the Reception transition
- Understand and respond to their child’s needs
- Manage worries and big emotions
- Connect with others
- Navigate services with clarity
Parents often find comfort in realising they’re not alone. The programme offers opportunities to share experiences, learn together, and build supportive peer networks.
How the Programme Will Run
Virtual Sessions
We begin with online sessions that introduce key topics around routines, development, and preparing for school. These sessions are accessible and easy to join, even from a mobile phone.
In-Person Workshops
From early 2026, we will hold in-person sessions supported by the Family Hubs. These workshops offer deeper conversations, hands-on activities, and space to explore individual questions or concerns.
Peer Support
A supportive community is at the heart of this programme. Parents will have opportunities to connect through group discussions, shared activities, and an optional WhatsApp group for ongoing encouragement.
Who the Programme Is For
- have a child with additional needs (diagnosed or suspected)
- are navigating SEND processes
- would like clarity and reassurance around the transition
- speak English as a second language or prefer simplified information
- find routines or communication with school challenging
- feel anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure about next steps
What Families Can Expect
- routines become easier
- school communication feels clearer
- children settle more confidently
- the home environment feels calmer
- they feel less isolated and more empowered
This is the environment we are committed to creating for families in Croydon.
Looking Ahead
This programme will run as a pilot from early 2026 with the intention of extending beyond April. Our aim is to build a model of support that can continue for years to come strengthening the school readiness pathway for families across the borough.
By working in partnership with Croydon Start for Life and the Family Hubs, we are building a coordinated, compassionate transition offer that recognises the unique needs of every child and every parent.
Register Your Interest
To join the programme or learn more, please contact:
or
We look forward to supporting you during this important stage in your child’s journey.
Every child deserves a confident start.
Every parent deserves supportive guidance.
And together, we are here to ensure both.
Fiona Small
