Transition, 2026-27
Transition at Discovery Academy is all about helping every child feel settled, confident and excited for the year ahead. We know that moving into a new class is a big moment, and our approach is designed to make that change feel positive, familiar and full of opportunity.
During the final two weeks of Half Term 3.2, beginning week commencing 06.07.2026, pupils will spend time getting to know their new classroom, their new teacher and the routines that will shape their learning journey next year. This early connection helps children build relationships, understand expectations and feel a sense of belonging before the summer break.
Our community is built on warmth, inclusion and high aspirations. Transition is the first step in that journey — a chance for every child to feel welcomed, understood and ready to thrive.
Key Dates for Transition 2026–27
We want families to have all the important information early, so you can plan with confidence and support your child through this exciting stage. Below is the key timeline for our 2026–27 transition programme.
Important Dates
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Class Lists Shared: This will be shared with families W/C 29.06.2026
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Final Day in Current Class: Friday 3rd of July 2026; a chance to celebrate achievements and say goodbye before the summer break.
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Transition Fortnight: Begins W/C 06.07.2026; pupils spend time in their new classroom, meet their new teacher and begin to explore next year’s routines.
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Meet the Teacher Evening: Thursday 9th July 2026; an opportunity for parents and carers to visit school, hear from staff and ask questions.
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Start of the New Academic Year: Wednesday the 2nd of September 2026.
These dates form the foundation of a smooth, well‑supported transition that helps every child feel ready for the year ahead.
What Happens During Transition Fortnight, for new students
Transition Fortnight is a carefully planned two‑week period designed to help every child feel settled, confident and ready for the year ahead. Beginning week commencing 06.07.2026, pupils will gradually step into their new routines and build relationships that will support them from September onwards.
During this time, children will:
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Spend time in their new classroom: They explore the space, understand where things are and begin to feel at home.
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Meet their new teacher and support staff: Early connection helps pupils feel secure and builds trust before the summer break.
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Take part in sample lessons and activities:These sessions introduce expectations, learning styles and the rhythm of the school day.
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Get to know new classmates: Team‑building activities help children form friendships and feel part of their new group.
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Learn about routines and expectations: From morning organisation to classroom values, pupils gain clarity and confidence.
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Explore key areas of the school: This includes shared spaces, outdoor areas and any specialist rooms they’ll use next year.
Our approach is calm, structured and nurturing. By the end of Transition Fortnight, pupils have already begun their journey into the new academic year — and they return in September feeling ready, familiar and excited.
Meet the Teacher Evening
Our Meet the Teacher Evening is an important part of the transition journey and a chance for families to build early connections with the staff who will be guiding their child through the year ahead. We warmly invite all parents and carers to join us on Thursday 9th July 2026.
During the evening, you will have the opportunity to:
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Meet your child’s new class teacher and begin building a strong home–school partnership
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Hear about the curriculum for the 2026–27 academic year, including key themes and learning priorities
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Learn about classroom routines and expectations, helping you support your child with confidence
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Understand how we communicate, including homework systems, reading expectations and ways to stay informed
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Ask questions and share anything you feel would help us support your child effectively
Supporting Your Child Through Transition
We know that moving into a new class can bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Every child experiences transition differently, and our role is to make sure they feel supported, understood and ready for the year ahead. Families play a huge part in this, and small steps at home can make a big difference.
Here are some simple ways to help your child feel confident during transition:
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Talk positively about the change: Children take their cues from the adults around them. A calm, upbeat conversation helps build reassurance.
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Encourage questions: Let your child share their thoughts, worries or curiosities. Naming feelings helps them feel in control.
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Celebrate their progress: Remind them of times they’ve handled change well before — it builds confidence.
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Stay in touch with us: If you have concerns, please speak to your child’s current teacher or a member of the pastoral team. We’re here to help.
Transition is a shared journey. When school and home work together, children feel secure, valued and ready to thrive from day one.
We recognise that as your child starts their new journey with us that every family is different and that your child has to have closure with their current setting and have their own closure. This is why the choice for how you want the transition to look for your child.
Over the week and a half of transition, you can choose when you want your child to come into school. All we ask is that you complete the form so we are aware of when your child will be in school as we have to let their current setting know about attendance.
Start Time: 9:30am. We ask you to accompany your child to reception.
Finish Time: 2:30pm. Again, we ask you to pick up your child at reception.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know families often have similar questions as transition approaches. Here are some of the things we are asked most often, along with clear, reassuring answers.
Will my child meet their new teacher before September?
Yes. All pupils spend time with their new teacher during Transition Fortnight, and families can meet them at our Meet the Teacher Evening on Thursday 9th July 2026.
When will we find out class groupings?
Class lists are shared the week before transition.
What if my child feels worried about the change?
This is completely normal. Please speak to us — we can offer additional visits, personalised support or time with key adults to help your child feel secure.
Does my child wear uniform during transition?
Yes. Pupils attend school in their usual Discovery Academy uniform throughout Transition Fortnight.
Can parents visit the new classroom?
Families are welcome to explore the learning environment during the Meet the Teacher Evening.
Will my child need any new equipment for transition?
No. All resources needed for transition activities are provided by school.
If you have a question that isn’t listed here, please get in touch — we’re always happy to help.