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Bright Beginnings At St Francis

Helping Nursery & Pre-School Families Navigate the Next Steps

Saturday 14th November 2026, 9am - 10.30am

Please register here - 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 environment. 

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 about 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:

Mrs Austin - Head at St Francis School, SENCo & Early Years Specialist

Mrs Austin is Head at St Francis and brings 25 years of experience as an Early Years teacher, Headteacher, and Wiltshire Primary School Improvement Advisor. Her breadth of leadership and classroom insight means she understands, better than most, what each child needs to thrive as they begin their school journey and she's committed to helping every family feel confident and supported along the way.

Ms Finlay - Assistant Head (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.

Miss Ede - Assistant Head (Prep)

A Key Stage 2 specialist with a background in London independent schools, she brings professional experience across both maintained and independent settings, and is now Assistant Head at St Francis.

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 for families will be served from 9am, followed by a short talk from Mrs Austin at 9.30am.
  • Children are warmly welcome - we'll have plenty of activities available for them during the session.
  • Attendance is free but please register by Monday 9th 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

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