From Nursery to Junior: An Effortless School Transition at St Chris

Moving up from the Nursery `to the Junior School`

Exciting Next Steps

The St Chris Nursery offers many opportunities for children to explore the Junior School environment, meet their future teachers, and begin to prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Children in the Top Monte benefit from early exposure to our wonderful Junior School facilities, with the Nursery itself located within the bright and airy Junior School building. They enjoy visits to a variety of spaces, including the music room, the Junior School Hall, the swimming pool, and our enchanting orchard — where Forest School adventures spark curiosity and confidence.

All of this takes place within a nurturing and supportive environment, helping children to feel comfortable and excited about the next stage of their learning. The vast majority of our Nursery children go on to continue their journey in our Junior School.

Growing up `in the Monte`

Building Key Skills

Focused adult-led sessions gradually increase during the year, with emphasis on essential skills such as phonics, reading, writing, and counting. This ensures children develop a strong foundation for their academic journey while still enjoying ample child-initiated play.

Nurturing Independence and Confidence

Play remains central, allowing children to embed social skills, self-confidence, and curiosity.

Smooth Transition Visits

During the second half of the Summer term, children make regular visits to Reception. This gives them a chance to become familiar with the new environment and staff, making the move to Junior School seamless and reassuring.

`Junior School` Transition Day

During the Summer term, Top Monte children and those entering the Reception class come together for Junior School Transition Day. It’s a chance to make new friendships, explore the next stage of learning, and ease any nerves about starting the Junior School.

Each child’s key worker shares detailed information with the Reception team, ensuring that every child’s unique journey so far is understood and celebrated. This handover allows the Reception team to support a seamless transition, helping children feel comfortable, valued, and confident as they begin the next chapter of their St Chris journey.

`Communicating` with Parents

Supporting a Strong Home–School Partnership

At St Chris, we value close collaboration between parents, carers, and teachers. During Top Monte, we hold a parent information session in the Autumn term to explain the transition process and what to expect as children move into Reception and beyond.

Tours and Guidance

Following the information session, parents are invited to tour the Junior School. This provides a refresher on our facilities and an opportunity to ask questions, ensuring families feel informed and confident about the next stage of their child’s learning.

A Positive Transition Experience

Our dedicated staff and welcoming community are committed to nurturing each child’s growth. We aim to make the transition into Junior School a positive, memorable, and enriching experience, helping children embark on this next chapter with confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning.