ABSTRACT
This chapter is structured differently to the others to reflect the unique nature of this month. The Organisation section is divided into two parts, with the Environment section in between. This is to emphasise how vital it is to do preparation work – both in terms of getting to know the families and setting up the environment – before the children start school. The unique timetable for September is explained and, in terms of setting up the class and garden, the general principles are described. I also explain home visits, our induction programme and how our daily routine is organised. In the Diary section, I describe the earliest work to start the development of self-discipline and look briefly at the introduction of woodwork. September: To Do List
Settle Year 1 children into their new class.
Arrange classroom and garden.
Label resources – with words and pictures.
Select children to form groups for staggered intake.
Carry out home visits.
Amend/add to resources according to information gathered.
Collect information from previous settings.
Pass on information to school office.
Flag up Special Needs issues with the SENCO.
Set up a folder for each child.
Induct new staff into planning/record-keeping systems.
Stagger intake over two weeks.
Concentrate on establishing ground rules and routines.
Reassess and evaluate class and garden organisation.
Complete and collate entry assessments.
