Welcome to the Year R applications page for Bridge & Patrixbourne CEP School. Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our school is a vibrant Christian community where every pupil is encouraged to flourish and grow, inspired by our vision based on Jesus’ words: “I am the vine, you are the branches. If you abide in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” (John 15:5). This vision is lived out daily through our core values of Service, Forgiveness, Trust, Generosity, and Compassion.
Choosing the Right School for Your Child
Starting school is a significant milestone, whether this is your first child or your fourth. The most important question to ask is: 'Would my child be happy here?' We warmly invite you to visit Bridge & Patrixbourne CEP School to experience our nurturing environment and meet our dedicated staff.
School Tours
Throughout October and November, we offer individual tours led by a member of our Senior Leadership Team. These 45-minute visits provide insight into our facilities, learning environment, and community spirit.
Booking for September 2026 applications will open in October 2025.
Why Choose Bridge & Patrixbourne?
Our school website gives you a glimpse of life here, showcasing how we cultivate creativity, excellence, and resilience in each pupil. We celebrate diversity and are proud to support our pupils from a variety of backgrounds, including those with English as an Additional Language and special educational needs.
Key Dates for Primary Transition (September 2026)
Friday 7th November 2025 | School applications open
Throughout November | Individual school tours available
Thursday 15th January 2026 | School applications close
Thursday 16th April 2026 | National Offer Day
Thursday 30th April 2026 | Deadline to accept or refuse places
Information for Starting School in September 2025
Once your child’s place is confirmed, we begin a gentle induction process designed to ease the transition into school life, reflecting our values of Trust and Compassion.
Teachers will liaise with feeder nurseries and visit children where possible and a series of welcoming events will be held.
Tuesday 9th June 2026, 2.45pm | Storytime Session (Group A)
Thursday 11th June 2026, 2.45pm | Storytime Session (Group B)
Thursday 18th June 2026, 1.45pm | First 'Stay and Play' sessions for children (Group A)
Thursday 25th June 2026, 1.45pm | First 'Stay and Play' sessions for children (Group B)
Thursday 2nd July 2026, 1.30pm | Transition into School Meeting for Parents / Second 'Stay and Play' session for children (Group A and B)
Saturday 4th/11th July (TBC), 12pm | Bridge Village Fete at the school (there will be an area targeted for our new children between 12pm and 1pm)
Tuesday 1st September & Wednesday 2nd September 2026 | Parental Consultations
Thursday 3rd September 2026 | Year R children start (half-days): 9am to 11.45 or 12.30pm to 3.15pm
Monday 7th September 2026 | Year R children in school full-time (8.40am to 3.15pm)
Appeals Process
If you are refused a place at one of your preferred schools on National Offer Day, you have the right to appeal:
- Appeal deadline: Tuesday 19th May 2026
- Late appeals will be heard within 40 school days from the deadline or from lodging the appeal, following Department for Education guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Year R children attend the Bridge Bees BASC (Breakfast & After School Club)?
Yes. A registration form is included in your welcome pack. Bookings are made manually by contacting Hannah Evans in the school office. Year R children can also attend our holiday club. More information can be found on the Bridge Bees pages of the school website.
What are the lunch arrangements?
Free school meals are provided for the first three years of schooling. Meals are booked via the ParentMail app, with registration instructions sent to parents. Visit our School Meals page for menus and further information.
What are the expectations for homework in Year R?
Homework is informal, focusing on speaking, listening, social skills such as turn-taking, and daily reading. See our Home Learning page for more guidance.
Are there after-school clubs for Year R children?
No clubs are usually offered in the Autumn Term, but extra-curricular clubs typically start after Christmas.
Next Steps
We encourage you to book a tour to see first hand how Bridge & Patrixbourne CEP School can nurture your child’s growth within a loving Christian community. If you have any questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us.