When will it happen?

[mumfor1standfinaltime]

Hi, I am confused. Ds is 2 in January. When does he have to start School?

I have his name down at 3 schools already, not sure which one to send him to! One school will take him from 2.5. This scares me so much as he isn't talking much and I haven't even thought about potty training!

I know legally he doesn't have to attend until 5, but what do I do next?

playschool(preschool) from 2.5
Preschool nursery usually attatched to school from 3
school term before 5

As I understand it; child can start pre-school (2.5 hours per day) the term after they are three (but doesn't have to); and must start school the term before they are five. Though I think it may vary in different Authorities.
If you feel ds isn't ready for formal pre-school, you can take Ofsted funding to pay for a private nursery. You might find they are more accommodating in terms of nappies etc.
Look on your LA website to find the dept to ask?

He'll be 4 yrs 8 months when he enters Reception in Sept 2009. You would normally apply for a place someitme during the acaedmic year 2008/9 (check LEA website fro deadlines). Having his name down now is meaningless, you'll just get sent the prospectus and application forms direct nearer the time ! Some schools may have a nursery or preschool but attendance there is no guarantee of a place in Reception, for which you reapply, and not obligatory.

Thanks for input. Will have to check out local websites. I am so scared to send him off to Nursery at 2.5! lol.

I will have to see how he develops over the next few months. Just find the whole thing so confusing.
Will the school/s invite us to have a look around? Or do I just go and hava a look around?

Thanks LIZS. I have no idea how any of the system works!

I ask because a little boy who lives next door to me has just started full time school and he has just turned 4!

Does it depend on the school? Aghhh!

you will get a letter and a form about october before he is due to start and then you can go look at schools you like.
I liked pre school as its only a couple of mornings and gets them ( and you) used to seperation.
Dont let them say they cant go if they are still in nappies..not true!

If you don't want him to go into a school environment just yet, there are alternatives listed here which might suit your child better. You'd need to visit soon though to ensure he gets a place when you want it.The term after he turns 3 (April 2008) he would become be eligible for LEA vouchers to fund up to 5 2 1/2 hour sessions per week, termtime, at Ofsted/LEA approved preschools, playgroups, childminders, nurseries etc.

Thanks auntymandy and LIZS. I feel better now!
That link looks interesting too, will have a look at that.

doesnt have to go anywhere unless you want him, untill he is 5

Would like him to go earlier than 5. I think maybe when he is 3. Will see how the year pans out first. Guess I am just thinking ahead to the New year!

Bear in mind most will operate a waiting list though so put his name down sooner rather than later, you can usually postpone easier than find a place at the last minute.