Littlegates Pre-prep Frequently Asked Questions

Children usually join Lower Reception the term after their third birthday.

Back to the top

Lower Reception children need a uniform and a PE kit (a uniform list is available on the parents’ page). A reading folder is useful to transport childen’s work, creations, important letters and information. Children access the Outdoor Learning Environment daily and it is beneficial for children to have gloves and a scarf when it is cold.

Back to the top

Yes. In Littlegates we do not have the necessary changing facilities to change nappies. The expectation is that children will be dry and clean. Staff will continue to support and encourage children who still need reminding to use the toilet.

Back to the top

They move up to Upper Reception the academic school year in which they are five years old. Every stage of their development and learning is carefully monitored to ensure maximum progression is achieved.

Back to the top

Yes. Here at Gateways there are many opportunities to access the wider curriculum. This includes such activities as dance, Spanish and ball skills.

Back to the top

Children begin in Upper Reception by learning letters and sounds as well as ‘tricky words’ (those which cannot be sounded out phonetically). Once they are secure with this they will be given a reading book to bring home to share with you. In addition to this, guided reading sessions with an adult happen throughout the week.

Back to the top

Children will recieve homework, such as practising their letter sounds or a practical numeracy activity. Any homework is aimed at being fun and positive.

Back to the top

Spanish is available as an after-school club to children in the Upper Reception class and above. French is introduced as part of the Gateways curriculum in Transition.

Back to the top