This article was first published in August 2019
Reception teacher Katie takes you on a tour of her primary school and explains the children's routine for the day.
Katie: Hi, I'm Katie. It may be a while since you've been to school, so I'm going to show you around a typical primary school so you'll know what to expect on your child's first day and what they'll be getting up to.
Katie: When your child arrives at school they'll be able to hang their things in the cloakroom.
Katie: Each child has their own peg with their name on. This encourages them to recognise their name and take responsibility for their belongings.
Katie: Your child's school will let you now what they need to bring on their first day.
Katie: First day nerves are normal for both you and your child, so don't worry!
Katie: Staff are used to settling in children, so when you leave you know they are in good hands…
Katie: And their tears will probably dry before yours!
Katie: This is the classroom where your child will spend most of their day and every activity has a learning focus.
Katie: We start each day on the carpet, taking the register…
Katie: And for teacher led activities.
Katie: Other areas focus on maths, writing, reading and investigation. Your child's school will probably have an outdoor classroom too, some children love to learn outside.
Katie: Going to the toilet at school can be a daunting thing for your child.
Katie: They can go at any point during the day, just by asking their teacher. And don't worry, if they have accidents we have spare clothes.
Katie: The school hall has many uses; for assemblies…
Katie: a chance for the whole school to get together.
Katie: For lunch, a favourite for many children!
Katie: Sometimes it's used for PE and you might see your child in a school concert here… remember the tissues.
Katie: Playtime is a chance for the children to socialise with others and make friends and staff are always around to look out for those on their own.
Katie: And after a busy day at school your child will be excited to see you at hometime.
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