Joining our school

Year 2 to Year 3 transition – ‘Learning to Fly’

At Chalfont St Peter CofE Academy we recognise that the personal development of children, spiritually, morally, socially and culturally, plays a significant part in their ability to learn and achieve. We therefore aim to provide an education that provides children with opportunities to explore and develop their own values and beliefs, spiritual awareness, high standards of personal behaviour, a positive, caring attitude towards other people, an understanding of their social and cultural traditions and an appreciation of the diversity and richness of the cultures.

Moving up to junior school from infants can be a daunting prospect, however here at CSPA we do all we can to ensure that the transition is as smooth and worry-free as possible. We work closely with our feeder infant schools so that transition from KS1 to KS2 is an exciting time full of new possibilities and opportunities.

Our KS1 to KS2 transition arrangements include:

Inviting Year 2 children from our feeder schools to visit CSPA and watch our annual Christmas productions
Two Open Mornings are held in the Autumn term for prospective parents and children
Deadline for KS2 applications in January and confirmation of a place is announced in April
Parents receive a comprehensive parent handbook detailing CSPA routines and general information
In June, parents are invited to an information evening which is an opportunity to learn more about our school and meet the CSPA team
Ahead of your child joining, admission details are collected via an easy to complete online Google Form
Year 2 children are invited to a transition morning in July - this is an opportunity to explore the school, meet their teacher and complete some fun activities
Parents are encouraged to join Classlist parent app as well as following the school on social media platforms (using the handle @cspa_head) to familiarise themselves with our school
Year 2 and Year 3 teacher liaison takes place in the summer term
CSPA SENDCo liaises with feeder schools late July to ensure transition of vulnerable children is managed well and to ensure children with SEND are clearly identified
Informal ‘meet the teacher’ drop-in sessions are hosted early in the Autumn term to allow parents the opportunity to see the Year 3 classrooms and meet the teachers
CATs testing takes place in the Autumn term of Year 3 to assess each child's potential, what they could achieve and how they learn best. The results help teachers to set the right learning pace for each child, monitor their progress and identify areas where they might need extra support or stretch.

Transitioning into CSPA in-year - 'Beginning your CSPA journey’

Transferring your child to a new school during the school year is known as an in-year school transfer.

In-year applications are applications to start school now (or within the next month) and should be made directly via Buckinghamshire council.

We offer the following transition arrangement to support children moving ‘in year’:

Prior to starting, a personal tour of the school for parents and children to meet staff, discuss routines and become familiar with the site
Where appropriate, the SENDCo will liaise with feeder school to ensure transition of vulnerable children is managed well and to ensure children with SEND are clearly identified
Children are matched up with a ‘buddy’ to support their transition into the school and help familiarise them with CSPA life
On your child’s first day, children are encouraged to enter via the School Office to meet their class teacher and buddy prior to the start of the day
Liaison with the previous school to ascertain information about your child including academic ability, behaviour and friendships and preferred learning style
Regular communication with parents in the first few weeks to share how your child has settled into CSPA