Starting School

Welcome to Bishop’s Hull Primary School

Welcome to Bishop’s Hull Primary School, where every child’s learning adventure starts with curiosity, creativity, and confidence! Beginning school is a big milestone, and we’re here to make it a joyful, memorable experience for both children and families.

At Bishop’s Hull, we believe the first steps into education should be filled with wonder and excitement. Our caring team creates a warm, supportive environment where children feel safe, valued, and ready to explore the world around them. From the very first day, your child will discover that learning is fun!

What to Expect

  • A Nurturing Start: Our Early Years team is passionate about helping children settle in happily. We focus on building friendships, developing independence, and sparking a love for learning.

  • Play-Based Learning: Through imaginative play, hands-on activities, and outdoor adventures, children develop essential skills while having lots of fun.

  • Strong Partnerships: We work closely with families to ensure a smooth transition. From welcome events to regular updates, you’ll always feel connected

Understanding Emotions - How to support you and your child

Starting school can be an exciting yet challenging time for young children emotionally. Dr Sarah Temple has written a simple, informative book which aims to help parents and caregivers in knowing how to talk about emotions and feelings with their children and how to manage more challenging emotional outbursts. She has kindly offered a free, downloadable copy of her book 'All Emotions are OK' (click link).

Positively Supporting Separation

Reading the recommended books below in the week or two leading up to school may help your child to process some of the emotions they are feeling about starting school and build and grow their confidence.

  • The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

  • The Colour Monster Goes to School by Anna Llenas

Parental tips for Separation Anxiety

Create a short, simple goodbye ritual. For example, two kisses and a hug. However hard it can be to mask your own feelings, try to keep your goodbye 'positive' to help your child feel confident and self-assured about heading into school. Don't sneak away, let your child know you are leaving.

Be consistent. Try to drop and pick up at the same time each day to avoid the unexpected factors. A routine can help build trust and confidence for a child.

Be specific. Discuss with your child a time or event to indicate when they will next see you.

Greetings. When separating from your child, give them your full attention and love, followed by a brief goodbye. When collecting them, give them a warm greeting. Don't be concerned if they do not greet you joyfully, they may even be angry or avoid looking at you. This is normal - try not to take offence. In fact, it shows that your child is confident in their relationship with you and are able to show their true feelings. Let them know how happy you are to see them and how much you have missed them.

Practise. If you have not spent much time apart, practise this. Start with scheduled playdates, or visit to a family member's house. Build up time in order to prepare them for school.

Find your support. It can be very hard for parents when their child starts school. You are not alone. Talk to those nearest to you to gain support or perhaps write down your thoughts and feelings if you do not feel comfortable sharing. By working through your own emotions, this can help reduce your own anxieties and prevent your child from taking them on.

We are looking forward to welcoming your child to Bishop’s Hull Primary School as they start their learning journey with us.