At St. Sebastian’s, we recognise that childhood experiences lay the foundations for later life, and that parenting has a critical impact on children’s emotional, behavioural and educational development, as well as their health and wellbeing. We work in close partnership with parents to ensure the best outcomes for every child, and the first step in this partnership is a home visit for every new family prior to their child starting Nursery or Reception.

Home visits help smooth the transition from home to school. Meeting teachers in a familiar and safe environment reassures children and helps to establish positive relationships between home and school. Many children remember their home visit fondly, often commenting later, “You came around my house!”

During a home visit:

• Two school staff visit the home, one of whom will be the child’s allocated key worker, or a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).

• Staff gather admissions information and explain the setting, routines and procedures.

• Parents have the opportunity to discuss their child’s development, including interests, responses to change, strategies for support and other relevant information.

• One staff member interacts with the child through play, observing their interests, favourite toys and learning style.

• A home visit record sheet is completed to capture all relevant information.

Safety and procedures:

• Staff wear ID badges and carry a mobile phone, with the number recorded in the school office.

• A brief risk assessment is carried out before entering the home and a member of the SLT is aware of each visit.

• Additional visits may be arranged by the Early Years Lead to support families with specific needs, following the same safeguarding procedures.

For children joining Reception who are new to St. Sebastian’s, our EYFS staff liaise with their previous nursery providers to carry out a setting visit in July. This ensures a thorough handover from the child’s nursery and key person, giving staff a clear understanding of the child’s interests, strengths and needs. This careful preparation supports a smooth start to school in September.

Children are gradually introduced to their new environment through phased transition, stay-and-play sessions, visits and home–school activities. These opportunities help children build positive relationships with staff and peers while learning routines, independence and social skills.

Our EYFS team ensures that children feel secure, happy and motivated to begin their learning journey.

Parents and carers are actively involved in the transition process. We provide information sessions, workshops and guidance to support learning at home and strengthen the partnership between home and school. Families are encouraged to share their child’s achievements and interests, ensuring continuity of learning and a supportive environment.