a day ago
Starting school: A parent's guide to laying the foundations of lifelong learning
Starting school is one of the most significant milestones in a child's life – and for many parents, one of the most emotional. It marks the beginning of a child's educational journey, their growing independence, and their first steps into the big world. A child's early years are critical to their future academic success and happiness, and the right school is a vital part of this, laying the foundation for the people they will become.
At Blackheath High School GDST, a leading independent school for girls aged 3-18 in the heart of Southeast London, we understand just how important this transition is, not just for children, but for parents too.
'We all want the very best for our children,' says Dr Kathy Weston, education researcher, parenting expert and Blackheath High advisor, 'and the more we can support them through early transitions, the better.' Her research shows that when children are helped to see change as an opportunity rather than something to fear, they are more likely to approach school with excitement and confidence, building emotional resilience and a love of learning that lasts.
Dr Weston will be joining Head of Blackheath High Junior School, Laura Comerford, at an information evening on 18 June for parents preparing for the transition to school. The event, open to all families, will share top tips for choosing the right school, insights from the latest research, and practical advice on how to support your child emotionally and academically during the transition to school.
At Blackheath High School, curiosity, creativity, and individuality are nurtured from the very beginning. Our youngest girls enjoy specialist lessons in French, Music, Art, Drama, PE, and DT, along with the unique adventure of Forest School, where they can explore the natural world and build confidence through hands-on learning. Girls can join Nursery from age three and are supported through the transition into Reception with dedicated settling-in sessions, taster days to familiarise them with their new home, and highly qualified staff who are experienced in supporting our youngest pupils with their first steps on their educational journey.
Head, Ms Comerford, explains the approach: 'Starting school isn't just the beginning of an education - it's the start of a lifelong love of learning. We encourage parents to start preparing their children for this new step in small but meaningful ways – establishing routines, reading books about starting school, and having calm, open conversations about what to expect. It is also important to go into the school so children can get used to their new environment, making the transition smooth and enjoyable. This not only helps children feel ready but also starts building a sense of excitement and pride in this big new step.'
Blackheath High School is part of the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST), the UK's leading network of independent girls' schools. Ms Comerford continues: 'We've created an environment where girls can truly thrive - where they build confidence, discover their voice, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Our Junior School lays the foundations not just for academic success, but for a lifetime of confidence.' GDST research supports this, showing that by the age of nine, four out of five girls in GDST schools feel more confident in overcoming challenges and taking risks than their peers elsewhere.
Join us at Blackheath High Junior School, Wemyss Road on Wednesday 18 June from 6-7.30pm. Booking is free - sign up here: Blackheath_High_Reception_Information
If you would like to see more of Blackheath High Junior School and see how it might be the perfect environment for your daughter, book one of our open events -
