New Reception Parents

Children are admitted to our Reception class in the September after their 4th birthday.

RECEPTION 2026 

We know that choosing your child’s first school is a big decision. At Thornham St James, we want you to feel confident and excited about the journey ahead. We provide every opportunity for you to experience our welcoming environment, meet our dedicated staff and see first-hand how our vision, values and curriculum ensure that every child is supported to shine.

Open Evenings
Thursday 25th September and Thursday 27th November, 6:15pm
An opportunity to hear about our vision and curriculum, meet the team and tour the school.

Open Classrooms
Monday 20th October and Monday 8th December, 2:45–3:25pm
An opportunity to come into the classroom, play and learn alongside your child and experience what Reception is like at TSJ.

Stay and Play – Community Sessions
Tuesday 16th September, Tuesday 14th October, Tuesday 4th November, Tuesday 9th December, 9:30–10:30am
For pre-school children and families to experience our school environment.

 

Applying for a Reception Class Place

From 1 September 2025 you can apply online for a primary school place.

You must complete your application by 5pm on 15 January 2026.

Please click on this link Oldham Council Admission Information

 

You will be notified of the school that your child has been offered by email, between on 16 April 2026. 

Starting School

Should your child be offered a place in our Reception class, we provide a range of opportunities to support a smooth and happy transition into school life. These include:

  • Parent Welcome Evening – 6:15pm Tuesday 12th May 2006 

  • Stay and Play Sessions – two sessions for children and their families to explore the classroom and meet staff

  • Teddy Bears’ Picnic – a chance to meet other children and families in your new class

  • Come Dine With Us – join your child as they enjoy their first lunch at school

In addition, our Reception team meet with staff from your child’s nursery to ensure a robust handover of information, so that every child’s needs and strengths are well understood before they begin their journey at Thornham St James.

Once September arrives, children have a short, staggered start to school life to acclimatise themselves to school life. We promote a positive home-school relationship we have regular opportunities for families to meet and communicate with school.