Coopersale & Theydon Garnon C.E. (V.C) Primary School

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Reception Starters (September 2026)

Helping you and your child prepare for school

Reception Roadshows - bookings now open for Reception starts of September 2026

We are delighted to share details of the upcoming Starting Reception Roadshows, taking place for families right across Essex!

These events are a fantastic opportunity for parents, carers and grandparents to learn more about school life, what to expect when children start Reception, and to meet some of our brilliant partner agencies who offer support along the way.

Who Can Attend?

Families are welcome at any Roadshow—regardless of the school their child will be joining. All events follow the same format, ensuring consistent, supportive key messages.

 Key Messages

• Roadshows are free, family friendly, and open to all families with children starting Reception in 2026.
• Events will run throughout March, April, and May 2026 across North, Mid, South, and West Essex.
• Families can choose any session that suits them—attendance is not tied to a specific school.
• The Roadshows are designed to help children feel confident, settled, and excited about starting school.
• The events support TLC, a countywide campaign promoting early communication, confidence, and smooth transitions into school.

Full details & event dates: https://www.tlc-essex.info/resource/starting-reception-parent-roadshows/

Essex libraries are running Big School Meet Ups in our libraries, which will bring together children and families who are starting at the same school for some fun activities including crafts, storytimes, and tips for starting school! You can find an event near you on our events page here: https://library-events.essex.gov.uk/search?q=big+school

Talk, Listen and Cuddle Starting School Campaign launches a Starting School Campaign in July to help families understand how to support their child with the transition to Reception in September. Our messages hopefully reassure families about expectations, things they can do over the summer period to prepare for change, and to share some top tips. Lots of professionals have got involved and we are pleased to celebrate this exciting milestone in a young child’s life. Share the Facebook page with parents so they can join the summer campaign. Click here to go to the Facebook page