FAQ's For New Families
Choosing a primary school for your child is a big and important decision, and we understand how much it matters to find the right environment for them to learn, grow and thrive. As parents, you may have lots of questions about school life, our approach to learning, the support we offer and what your child’s first steps into education will look like. We’ve put together the answers to some of the questions we’re most often asked below, to help you feel informed and confident as you explore your options. If you have any further questions, we’d be delighted to chat with you when you visit us for an open day, where you can also get a feel for our school and discover what makes it a special place to learn.
CHOOSING OUR SCHOOL
Why should I choose your school for my child?
At Cubbington C of E Primary School, we want every child to feel happy, safe and valued, with the confidence to be themselves and the opportunity to reach their full potential. At the heart of everything we do are our three simple aims: Achieving, Belonging and Caring (ABC). We combine high expectations for learning with a nurturing, inclusive environment where children are encouraged to grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. As a school at the heart of our village community, we value the close partnerships we build with families, our church and the wider community. We want every child to feel that they belong, that their achievements matter and that they are cared for as an individual.
What makes your school special?
Our school is a welcoming and inclusive community where every child is encouraged to flourish. Our Christian vision underpins school life, helping us nurture kindness, courage, respect and a strong sense of belonging. We believe that children learn best when they feel safe, supported and inspired, and our dedicated staff work hard to create an environment where every child can thrive. We offer engaging learning experiences, make the most of our wonderful outdoor learning spaces and encourage children to explore their interests, develop their talents and celebrate their achievements. Above all, we want our children to leave us not only with a strong foundation for future learning, but also with the confidence, compassion and curiosity to embrace the world around them.
How many children are there in each class?
We allow up to 30 children in our reception, year 1 and year 2 classes.
From year 3 to year 6 this number increases slightly to 32.
How many classes do you have?
We are a one-form-entry primary school, which means we have one class for each year group, from Reception through to Year 6. Children begin their school journey with us in Reception, usually aged four or five, and can continue with the same school community until they move on to secondary school at the end of Year 6.
A one-form-entry school offers a close-knit environment where children have the opportunity to get to know pupils across different age groups, build lasting friendships and feel part of a wider school family. With one class in each year group, there is a strong sense of community, and children can grow in confidence as they become familiar with the school, its routines and its staff.
What is your catchment area and will I get a space if I am not within that area?
Although we have a designated catchment area, we do not typically fill all our places with children living within it. However, admissions can vary from year to year depending on a number of factors, so we cannot guarantee that every applicant will be offered a place. Our advice is always to put us as your first preference if we feel like the right school for your child. We want families to choose us because they love what we offer, so if you have visited us and can picture your child thriving here, we would encourage you to apply.
STARTING SCHOOL
What does your induction process look like?
Summer Term
During the summer term before your child starts with us we host an information evening for parents, giving you the opportunity to find out more about school life, meet members of our team and ask any questions you may have about your child starting Reception.
Children are also invited to two short stay-and-play sessions in the classroom. During the first session, parents stay with their child, allowing them to explore the environment together and begin to feel comfortable in their new surroundings. At the second session, children have the opportunity to stay independently while parents remain nearby in school for a cup of tea and a chat.
The first week – building confidence
During the first week of school, we carry out home visits, giving staff the opportunity to meet children in the familiar surroundings of their own homes. This helps us begin to build positive relationships, get to know each child as an individual and find out more about their interests, personalities and needs.
The second week – growing independence
When children start in the classroom, they attend in half-class groups. These smaller groups help children become familiar with the classroom, establish routines, get to know staff and begin making friends in a calm and supportive environment.
During the second week, the children attend half-day sessions, with one full-day session to help them prepare for the longer school day. This gradual approach allows children to build their confidence, become more independent and grow accustomed to the rhythm of school life, including lunchtime and the wider school routines.
The third week – settling into full-time school
By the third week, children join us full-time as a complete class. By this stage, they will have had time to get to know their teachers, explore their classroom, make new friends and become familiar with many of the routines that will support them throughout Reception.
We recognise that every child is different and that starting school can bring a mixture of excitement and nerves. Our induction process is designed to make the transition as positive and reassuring as possible, helping children feel a real sense of belonging from the very beginning. We work closely with families throughout this time, so please do talk to us if you have any questions or concerns. We are here to support you and your child every step of the way.
CURRICULUM
How and what will my child learn in Reception?
Our Reception curriculum combines carefully planned adult-led teaching with opportunities for children to learn through play, exploration and discovery.
Children take part in regular, focused phonics and maths lessons, helping them to develop the essential skills they need for future learning. We follow the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds phonics scheme, which introduces children to letter sounds in a structured, progressive way and supports them as they begin to blend sounds together to read words and books. Alongside this, our maths teaching develops children's understanding of numbers, counting, patterns, shapes and early mathematical concepts.
Much of the school day is built around continuous provision. This means that our classroom and outdoor environment are carefully organised with a range of engaging activities and resources that children can access freely throughout the day. The space is free flowing and children are able to choose whether they would like to spend time in or outside. Rather than simply playing without direction, children explore purposeful activities that build on what they have been taught, develop new skills and allow them to practise their learning independently.
For example, children might develop their counting skills by running a shop, explore capacity and measurement in the water tray, practise writing in the role-play area or build structures that encourage them to investigate shape, balance and problem-solving. Our adults play a vital role by observing children, asking thoughtful questions, introducing new vocabulary, modelling skills and extending their thinking. Activities are adapted to reflect children's interests, needs and next steps in learning.
This approach is supported by the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which recognises the importance of play, exploration, communication and meaningful experiences in children's development. Research highlights the value of combining direct teaching with guided play and opportunities for children to practise and apply what they have learned. We carefully plan our provision around the knowledge and skills we want children to develop, ensuring that play has a clear purpose and supports progress across all areas of the curriculum.
Will by child get homework?
We don't set structured home learning activities until your child reaches year 2. Until then, we believe that the best thing you can do with your child at home is read with them, spend time exploring their interests and teach them to be curious about the world they live in.
In year 2, children receive a maths activity once per week alongside a list of spellings to learn.
Spellings and maths continue from year 3, with one activity set per week. At this stage we also add one English activity to complete during the week. Homework is set using our online parent communication platform, Seesaw. We also use maths.co.uk and spag.co.uk to set homework.
How do you teach Religious Education?
Religious Education helps children explore the Christian faith, learn about other religions and worldviews, and reflect on some of life's big questions. As a Church of England school, our Christian vision of Achieving, Belonging and Caring (ABC) underpins our approach, encouraging children to develop curiosity, understanding and respect for the beliefs and experiences of others.
Children explore Bible stories, Christian beliefs and traditions, as well as the beliefs and practices of other faiths. They are encouraged to ask questions, discuss different perspectives and consider how beliefs can influence the way people live.
RE is also closely connected to the wider Christian life of our school. Through our strong links with St Mary's Church, collective worship and opportunities to explore Christian festivals, children can make meaningful connections between what they learn in lessons and how faith is expressed in the world around them. Above all, we want children to become thoughtful, compassionate and respectful individuals who feel confident exploring their own ideas while appreciating the beliefs of others.
LOOKING AHEAD
How do I arrange wraparound care?
We are very proud of our wraparound provision and are pleased to be able to cater for all families. We do not work on an application basis and we will never "fill up" our spaces so there's no need to worry about whether or not you'll be able to secure wraparound care for your child.
Our wraparound care is called The Nest and you can find more information about this on the pages on our website. The Nest offers simple, reliable childcare as well as a range of exciting clubs. Bookings are made on a half termly basis and can also be made an on ad-hoc basis.
Do you offer school dinner?
Yes, all children are able to have a school dinner if they wish. You can find information about what we offer here.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
We’d love to meet you! Come along to one of our open days to explore our school, meet our team and discover what makes our school such a special place for children to learn and grow. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions and find out whether we’re the right fit for your family. If you can't make an open day, please feel free to get in touch with us via email or phone.