Starting strong in Reception: Language and Literacy from Day 1 led by Kate Perkins and Naomi Warren

Get ready for the year ahead with this focused session designed to support EYFS leaders and Reception teams in preparing for a smooth, purposeful start. With a strong emphasis on early language and literacy, this
session will explore the key actions that need to be in place by the end of the summer term to ensure children begin their school journey with the best possible foundations.
During the session, participants will:
Identify the essential priorities for Reception leaders and teams to secure before the end of term, with a focus on communication, language, and early literacy.
Ensure enabling environments, routines, and expectations are carefully planned to promote talk, storytelling, and early reading from day one.
Prepare staff through effective communication, training, and shared understanding of early language development and phonics approaches.
Review and organise core texts, storytelling provision, phonics resources, and continuous provision to ensure immediate readiness in September.
Plan for early baseline assessment and identification of speech, language, and literacy needs, enabling timely and targeted support.
Explore how to build strong foundations in oracy, vocabulary, and listening skills as the bedrock for future reading and writing success.
Consider how to maintain consistency, routine, and high expectations in language-rich practice from the very first weeks.
This session will emphasise the importance of strong early years practice and proactive planning, ensuring that Reception classrooms are language-rich, well-organised, and ready to meet the needs of all learners from the outset.
Ideal for EYFS leaders, Reception teachers, and senior leaders, this session will provide practical guidance and a clear roadmap to ensure that children’s language and literacy journey starts strong—and continues to flourish throughout the year.