Survey highlights that children starting primary school are not ready to start school
Concerned are being raised by head teachers regarding the amount of children starting school who are unable to use the toilet or speak in full sentences.
A recent survey has found that many children starting reception are unable to take part in classroom activities, these findings have come from a new School Ready Survey that was commissioned by the National Association of Head Teachers and the Family and Childcare Trust.
The survey has shown that there are several issues around children’s speech, language and communication skills and their social, emotional and physical development.
It is suggested that children accessing early education are being given an advantage, as high-quality early education can help boost children’s outcomes and narrow the attainment gaps between all peers. However not all children are able to get this early education, therefore it is important that further help is done to ensure all children access high-quality early education.
One of the most common reasons for not being school ready was the failure to identify children with additional needs early enough, this can then cause several further problems for teachers.
It has been urged by the NDNA that settings such as school and early years settings should work more closely together. Creating a solid transition period will help all professionals involved, teachers will be able to understand children’s starting points, early years staff can share any concerns and it also allows measures to be put in place regarding extra support.
It is imperative that from the start children are given high-quality care and education and information is shared with schools regarding children’s development.
How in your setting to do help prepare children for school?