Reception September 2026 – Everything You Need to Know
Welcome to Marlborough
Starting school is a significant milestone, and we are so pleased that your child will be beginning their learning journey with us at Marlborough Primary School.
Our aim is to ensure every child feels happy, safe, and excited about learning. We are looking forward to getting to know both you and your child over the coming months.
At Marlborough, we work in close partnership with our families. Your engagement plays a vital role in your child’s development and in the success of our school community.
Transition Events – Key Dates in July 2026
To help you and your child become familiar with our school, we are pleased to invite you to the following events:
| Date | Time | Session | Host | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday 2nd July 2026 | 9:00am – 9:20am | Reception Welcome Meeting | Mrs McKeever | School Hall |
| 9:20am – 10:00am | School Readiness Meeting | Ms Kachhwaha (Speech & Language Therapist) & Ms Martins (Occupational Therapist) | School Hall | |
| 10:00am – 10:30am | School Tour | Mrs McKeever & Mrs Peet (Early Years Lead) | School Site | |
| Thursday 9th July 2026 | 9:30am – 10:30am | Stay & Play Session | Reception Staff | Reception Classrooms |
Parent–Teacher Consultation - September 2026
This meeting is a valuable opportunity to:
- Share information about your child
- Discuss any questions or concerns
- Begin building a strong home–school partnership
Your meeting with your child’s class teacher will take place on one of the following dates:
- Thursday 3rd September 2026
- Friday 4th September 2026
- Monday 7th September 2026
You will receive a specific appointment date and time at our Welcome Meeting.
Where to go:
Please go to the school’s main reception a few minutes before your scheduled appointment. Your child's class teacher will be there to greet you and take you to your child's Reception Class.
Can my child attend the meeting?
Yes, we would like your child to be there.
Does my child need to wear their uniform?
Ideally, yes. If your child already has their school uniform, we encourage them to wear it for the meeting. However, if you have not purchased it, please do not worry — it is not a problem.
Induction Week – Half Days
Tuesday 8th to Monday 14th September 2026
Children will attend school for half-day sessions only this week (no lunch will be provided):
- Morning Group: 9:00am – 11:30am
- Afternoon Group: 1:00pm – 3:30pm
Our phased start helps children build confidence, feel secure, and form early friendships in a calm, nurturing environment.
Full-Time Start
From Tuesday 15th September 2026
All Reception children attend full-time, from 8:55am to 3:30pm.
Wraparound Care – Marlborough Minders
Wraparound childcare is available before and after school once your child starts full-time:
- Morning care: 7:45am – 8:25am
- Afternoon care: 3:30pm – 6:00pm
Spaces are limited, so we recommend joining the waiting list early. Booking details are available on our school website or from the school office.
Completing Your Child’s Admission – Essential Step
To complete the admissions process, you must complete this admission form.
Free Breakfast Club
All Reception children can attend our Free Breakfast Club when they are in school full time (Tuesday 15th September). Further details on the booking process to follow.
- Time: 8:25am daily
- Includes: A healthy breakfast and calming start to the day
- Cost: Free to all pupils
School Essentials
- School Uniform: Where to buy it and what to wear
- Term Dates
- Cool Milk: School milk is available for all primary pupils; children eligible for Free School Meals receive milk free but must still register online.
- Parent App & Portal guidance
- Free School Meals: Entitlement and registration info
- Lunch Menu: Provided at the Welcome Meeting
Weekly Newsletters
Every Friday, you’ll receive both the Reception and whole-school newsletters by email, with:
- Key dates and reminders
- Class updates and highlights
- School news and events
What You will Receive This Term
You will received:
- An email to complete the Admission Form
- The date and time of your Parent–Teacher Consultation
- Whether your child will attend morning or afternoon sessions during Induction Week
- Your child’s allocated class and class teacher
Questions?
If you have any questions before your child starts, please contact the school office — we are happy to help.
Please note:
Last Day of Term: Thursday 16th July 2026
School Re-opens: Thursday 3rd September 2026
During the holiday period, staff will be unavailable, so please raise any questions before the end of term.
We look forward to welcoming you and your child to Marlborough Primary School.