Starting school is a significant moment for children and parents.

Families want to feel confident that their child will be cared for, settle well, and develop the strong foundations they need to thrive as they move forward in their education.

This webinar shares what to look for in high-quality nursery and Reception/Foundation Stage provision, alongside practical steps you can take home to support a smooth and positive transition into school life.

Key details

Date: 29 January
Time: 12:30 – 13:30 (CET)
Location: Online (Microsoft Teams). If you plan to view the session live on your mobile phone, we encourage you to download the Microsoft Teams app before the session. 
Audience: Parents and guardians
Register: register for the session here

What we mean by Early Years

In this session, Early Years refers to nursery and Reception-age provision (the Foundation Stage). This is where children build communication, confidence, independence, and learning habits that shape their experience of school.

What we will cover

A strong start is created through a thoughtful combination of:

  • high-quality care so children feel safe, secure and supported
  • a clear curriculum that supports learning and development over time
  • skilled teaching and learning through play, with adults who know when to step in and when to step back
  • ongoing assessment through noticing, so adults understand each child’s next steps in learning
  • support for self-regulation, such as focus, waiting, managing feelings and persevering
  • a strong partnership with parents, so home and school work together to support children’s progress and development

We will also explore why the Prime Areas matter (communication and language, personal development, and physical development) and how they underpin later learning.

Practical guidance for families

The session includes practical ideas you can use straight away, including:

  • building language through everyday conversation
  • supporting social confidence through play and socialising
  • encouraging independence and self-care (for example, dressing)
  • sharing stories and books, singing songs and rhymes, and playing every day
  • building confidence in English where relevant
  • helping your child connect positively with school

What you will take away

You will leave with:

  • a clearer understanding of what quality looks like in nursery/Reception provision
  • better questions to ask when visiting and comparing provision
  • simple steps to support your child’s transition into school
  • a follow-up toolkit you can use immediately

Meet Your Host

Meet your host: Fiona is an Assistant Headteacher at Junior School Leidschenveen. She has been working at the BSN for 31 years and has been an early years practitioner for over 35 years. At the BSN, she has nearly always worked in Foundation Stage – as a TA (teaching assistant), Senior TA (teaching assistant), teacher, lead teacher and Achievement and Progress Lead. 

Fiona is interested in research and studies in Early Childhood, Child Development and Child Psychology. She has completed numerous diplomas and qualifications in these areas in both the UK and North America. 

Fiona is committed to giving children the chance to develop a lifelong respect for learning.

 

 

Learn more about the Foundation Stage 

 

FAQ  

Can I ask a question? Yes. There is a live Q&A during the session. If your question doesn't get answered, we invite you to email us afterwards. You will receive contact email addresses in the resources that follow the webinar. 
Will there be a recording? Yes, all registered participants will receive access to the session recording. 

 

Nearly 90
Different nationalities amongst students across all four campuses
550+
Enriching clubs, groups and activities

 

 

 

 

If you are interested in learning more about the Foundation Stage and Early Years curriculum, you may also be interested in some of our other events coming up: 

Beginners Open Morning | 3 March 2026

Discover how the Foundation Stage (ages 3-5) at The British School in the Netherlands will support your child and help them develop into happy, confident and motivated learners. 

We invite you to visit one or both of our Junior School campuses! 

Sign up!

The Open Mornings run from 8:45 AM to 11 AM and will follow a set programme. You are kindly requested to arrive on time to ensure you enjoy the full experience.

Starting school is a significant milestone in a child’s life. The British School in the Netherlands (BSN) has extensive experience in guiding families through this important transition with care and expertise.

During this welcoming morning, parents and guardians will have the opportunity to:

  • Explore classrooms and vibrant learning spaces
  • Meet BSN’s specialist Music and PE teachers
  • Learn about the engaging, child-centred curriculum
  • Experience the inspiring outdoor learning environments
  • Ask questions and connect with teaching and Admissions staff

 

Virtual Tours

You can also explore our campuses through our virtual tours!

See our Virtual Tours