Bright Beginnings
Helping Nursery & Pre-School Families Navigate the Next Steps
Saturday 15th November, 9am - 10.30am
Please register here - Bright Beginnings Booking Form
A Warm Welcome for Families Beginning the School Journey
Starting school is an exciting milestone for every child and for parents, it can feel like one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make.
Recognising this, our Bright Beginnings at St Francis event has been created to support families at every stage of that journey through offering a friendly and informative morning to help you feel confident, informed and inspired as you prepare for your child's next steps.
Whether you're just starting to explore options or already completing applications, this relaxed, family-friendly session will offer advice, practical tips and plenty of opportunities to ask questions of experts all within a welcoming enviornment.
During the Morning, You'll Discover:
Understanding the School Application Process
Clear guidance on key dates, how to apply and what to expect across both state and independent sectors.
Supporting a Smooth transition from Nursery to School
How to help your child feel ready and excited for their new adventure.
What "School Readiness" Really Means
Insights into the social, emotional and practical skills that will help your child thrive.
What to Look For in a Great School
Expert advice on what lies beyond inspection reports - and what truly makes a setting special.
Independent School Bursaries & Financial Support
Understanding the process and what options may be available for your family.
Open Q&A Session
Ask your questions directly to our experienced panel in an informal and supportive atmosphere.
This Event is Perfect If:
- You are unsure of the school application process.
- You would like to understand what makes a school the right fit for your child.
- You would like to know how best to support your child's school readiness.
- You would like clear, impartial insight into both state and independent school options.
- You are keen to meet other local families on the same journey.
Meet Our Expert Team on hand to support you:
Mr Lee - Headteacher at St Francis School
With over 20 years' experience across international, maintained and independent schools as a teacher and school leader, Mr Lee holds an MA in Eduction and offers a wealth of undertanding about what helps children and families make the best start.
Mrs Austin - SENCo & Early Years Specialist
An Early Years teacher, former Headteacher and Wiltshire Primary School Improvement Advisor, Mrs Austin draws on 25 years of experience and leadership insight to help families understand every child's unique journey into school.
Ms Finlay - Head of Pre-Prep
With over 25 years of experience across Early Years & Key Stage 1 education, including local settings in Wiltshire, Ms Finlay offers practical advice on what to look for in a nurturing and well-rounded learning environment.
Mrs Neal - Deputy Head, Admissions & Parent Liaison
Bringin both personal and professional experience of maintained and independent schools, Mrs Neal is on hand to guide families through admissions processes with clarity and care.
Mrs Urbieta-Myers - Nursery Manager
A qualified teacher with experience across both nursery, primary and independent settings, Mrs Urbieta-Myers understands how to bridge the gap between early years and school with confidence and joy.
Additional Details
- Breakfast of families will be served from 9am, followed by a short talk from Mr Lee at 9.30am.
- Children are warmly welcom - we'll have plenty of activities available for them during the session.
- Attendance is free but please register by Monday 10th November using this link.
We believe that every child's educational journey should start with a bright beginning so join us at St Francis where we look forward to welcoming families and supporting you with planning the next steps in your child's path of discovery.
Please register here - Bright Beginnings Booking Form