New Starters
Welcome To year 3 at potters gate primary school
We are delighted that your child will be joining us this September. Starting junior school is a big and exciting milestone, and we are here to support both you and your child every step of the way. This page contains everything you need to help your child to feel confident and capable as they transition from Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 2.
Key Dates
Welcome to Potters Gate Presentation - April 2026
Wednesday 24th June 2026 at 2.30pm - 3.20pm Children's Team Building
(St Andrew's children will be brought to Potters Gate by Mrs Durack, please collect from Potters Gate playground at 3.20pm.
Monday 29th June 2026 at 6.30pm Parents’ Meeting
Potters Gate School Hall
(You will be told the name of your child's class teacher at this meeting and have an opportunity to meet them in their classroom.)
Tuesday 30th June 2026 between 9.15am – 12.00pm - Moving Up Day
Children will spend the morning with their new teacher and class in their new classroom.
(St Andrew's children will be brought to Potters Gate and taken back to St Andrew’s by Potters Gate School staff)
Wednesday 1st July 2026 at 2.30pm - 3.20pm - Storytime Session and tour of the school for children with their new teacher
(St Andrew's children will be brought to Potters Gate by Mrs Durack, please collect from Potters Gate playground at 3.20pm)
Please come to the main entrance at Potters Gate for the above events
School Start Dates
Thursday 3rd September, 2026
Prepare your child for school
As children reach this age, they are ready for greater independence. You can help your child prepare for the increased expectations of Year 3 by:
- Encouraging Personal Organisation
- Practise checking that they have everything they need for the day, such as their water bottle, reading book and coat and that they know what day they need to wear PE kit.
- Developing Academic Resilience
- Year 3 introduces more structured lessons and more time sitting up to a table. Talking positively about the new things they will learn such as French and the topics they will cover in afternoon lessons will help to prepare them for the change.
- Strengthening Literacy and Numeracy
- Encourage independent reading of short chapter books and practise quick recall of addition and subtraction facts over the holidays.
What to Bring
To help your child feel comfortable and prepared for their school day, we ask that they bring a few essential items with them each day.
Water bottle - clearly named. Please ensure this is brought in daily and taken home for cleaning.
School bag - a small rucksack for carrying reading books, letters, homework, their water bottle and other important items between home and school. Checking your child’s bag daily will help you stay up to date with their learning and any communications.
Waterproof coat - the weather can be very changeable, especially in the Autumn Term, so please ensure your child has a named coat with them each day.
Please ensure that all items are clearly named to help us return them quickly if misplaced. Thank you for your support in helping your child come to school ready to learn each day.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
THE SCHOOL DAY
Gates open at 8.35am
Children to be collected at 3.20pm
LUNCHES
STAYING CONNECTED
Please see our handy guide on how we stay connected at Potters Gate - emails, apps, social media etc.
Settling Into Key Stage 2
We recognise that the move from Year 2 to Year 3 involves a shift toward more formal learning and lots changes for the children. Our priority during the first few weeks is to support children in establishing these new routines, feeling happy and safe and building strong relationships within their new class.
Our Year 3 team is experienced in bridging the gap between the Infants and Juniors, ensuring the environment remains supportive while encouraging the maturity expected of 7-year-olds. We focus on creating a sense of belonging and helping each child to find their voice within our school community.
MEDICAL & dietary requirements
If your child has any medical or dietary needs, please ensure the school is notified ahead of your child's start date.
frequently asked questions
What if someone different is collecting my child?
Please advise the School Office in advance, by either email or telephone. You may also register an additional adult on Arbor as someone you have given permission to collect.
Can my child bring toys from home?
We ask that toys stay at home unless specifically requested and agreed with the class teacher.
Can my child come to school by bike or scooter?
Yes, we encourage children to come in on foot or by pedal power. We have a secure bike / scooter shed on the school playground. Children should not ride their bikes / scooters on the playground.