New Reception Parents

An exceptional education begins with the right choice.

Our school is recognised by Compare School and College Performance as the top performing primary school in Royton and joint third in Oldham. 

 

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

RECEPTION 2027

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

An opportunity to hear about our vision and curriculum, meet the team and tour the school.

Begins with Headteacher's Welcome 6pm 

Thursday 17th September 2026

Thursday 22nd October 2026

Thursday 26th November  2026

 

Applying for a Reception Class Place

From 1 September 2026 you can apply online for a primary school place.

You must complete your application by 5pm on 15 January 2027.

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 2027. 

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 – Tuesday 18th May 2027 6pm

  • Stay and Play Sessions – a session for children and their families to explore the classroom and meet staff Tuesday 15th OR Tuesday 22nd June 2027

  • Teddy Bears’ Picnic – a chance to meet children and families in your new class Thursday 7th July 2027  4:15pm – 5:30pm 

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. 

The Admissions Appeals Timetable 2027

  • Allocation date for the normal round Reception: 16 April 2027
  • Deadline for appeal forms to be submitted: 14th May 2027
  • Appeals will be heard by: 12th July 2027