Reception
Where the Magic Begins!
The magic begins in Reception, where our youngest boys start out on their exciting adventure in a small and nurturing environment at Tower House, that sets the stage for a lifetime of learning, special friendships and wonderful discoveries.
Settling In
Welcoming our new Reception boys into Tower House is an incredibly special occasion for them, for their families and for us. Our programme of induction begins as part of the admissions process, during the Summer Term prior to starting at THS, with a series of opportunities for our new boys and their families to visit us at school. Our Reception staff also visit the boys in their home settings to give a full and rounded picture of each boy and to learn more about them and their interests. All these elements of our induction help to make the transition as smooth and successful as possible. Our experience shows that the boys bounce into their classroom on their first day of school, familiar and confident in their surroundings and the staff, including the Head.
For the first few days, Reception boys come in a little later than normal, starting at 8:50am for half a day at school, and over the course of the first week this is gradually increased until the boys are enjoying the whole day.
As we get to know the boys our individual support and tailored approach ensures that each boy continually progresses whilst learning to love school and the adventure of learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of starting in Reception at Tower House?
Entry into Reception is non-selective and the first 18 boys that have registered through our admissions process are offered a place. Above Reception, places are only offered as they become available and the school has long waiting lists for most year groups.
The Reception class in Tower House is an exceptionally magical, busy and fun place to learn and settle into formal education. The school provides specialist teachers for key subjects including music, sport, drama, languages, art and ICT, ensuring that the boys get used to receiving instructions from a wide number of different adults across the school.
Our all-boy environment allows our staff to tailor the curriculum and design lessons that exclusively suit the learning styles of boys and ensure that every day they are engaged and stimulated. The boys spend their first year at Tower House familiarising themselves with their daily routines, making friends and gaining confidence so they are ready and excited to move through the Junior School with curiosity and excitement.
How should I prepare my son for life in Reception?
We understand that starting school is a significant milestone for children and parents. Prior to starting school, your son will receive a home visit from the Head, Mr Lunnon and the Reception class teacher, Miss Clark. Your son will have several opportunities to visit the school in the summer term to help him become familiar with the environment, his new classmates and the teaching staff.
The Reception boys will all start with a range of abilities and strengths in different areas and this is nothing to worry about. We suggest to parents that they gently encourage their boys to become independent, putting clothes and shoes on by themselves, eating a meal with the family at a table and going to the toilet.
Does the Reception class go to Forest School?
Every Friday morning, Reception boys enjoy weekly Forest School, which offers rich learning opportunities outdoors, whatever the weather. This is an excellent way to bring the school week to an end, and often the highlight of the week for the boys.
Forest School at Tower House supports:
- Independence and resilience
- Teamwork and communication
- Curiosity and exploration
- Physical development and coordination
- Understanding of nature and the season
My child has a food allergy. How does Tower House manage these dietary requirements?
Lunch at Tower House is a very social and communal affair. Our food is prepared and cooked fresh every day.
If your child has any special food requirements, this should be indicated through the online medical forms which are completed when joining the school. The school is able to accommodate most dietary needs and encourages all parents to discuss these with us. A no-nut policy is strictly operated and all boys with dietary requirements are provided with a colour-coded lanyard that is checked each day by the teachers and kitchen staff.
Where can I find out information about the Tower House School uniform?
A full list of the uniform required at Tower House is provided to all families when they join the school. We ask that all clothing items are clearly labelled with your son's name.
Our school outfitters are Dolphin House, where the vast majority of the uniform can be bought.
We also host a very popular second-hand uniform sale every term, run by the fantastic Friends of Tower House team.
Do the boys get any homework in Reception?
Reception boys are often tired after a full day, so formal homework is introduced only when staff feel the boys are ready. Homework typically includes:
- Practising sounds and playing phonics games
- Reading daily
- Practising tricky words weekly
- An optional weekend handwriting activity
Does the Reception class have sports lessons?
In Reception, games, PE and swimming lessons are taught throughout the week. These sessions are run by specialist sports staff and a number of skills are practised which are linked to the school’s PE and Games curriculum, i.e. Football in the Autumn, Rugby in the Spring and Cricket in the Summer Term. Boys are also taught athletics skills in the summer in preparation for the Junior School Sports Day.