Zouch Academy in Tidworth has been chosen by the Department for Education as one of only five schools in the South West of England to lead a new national programme aimed at improving the quality of reception year education.
The Reception Networks programme identifies schools with a strong track record in reception year teaching to share their expertise and support other schools in their local area. Being selected as a lead school is a significant recognition of the quality of education at Zouch.
As one of just five lead schools covering the entire South West region, Zouch will open its doors to other schools, host professional discussions, share proven approaches to early years teaching, and bring together local schools through regular network meetings.
The programme is part of the government's drive to ensure more children are ready to thrive after their reception year, with a national target of 75% of children reaching a Good Level of Development - a performance measure designed to indicate whether a child is ready for their next stage of learning after reception - by 2028.
Nina Johnson, executive headteacher at Zouch Academy, said:
"We are extremely proud to be recognised as 'a Rise Best Start in Life School' school for the South West region. Reception year is where so much begins and every child deserves the very best start to their educational journey, so it is an honour to have this responsibility. We are really looking forward to welcoming other schools in and sharing what we do. We’re also excited to continue building on this success to ensure children thrive from the moment they join our school communities."
Lisa Davies, Executive Headteacher at The White Horse Federation, said:
“Zouch Academy being recognised as 'a Rise Best Start in Life School' powerfully reflects our Trust’s Early Years Core Commitments and being selected to share what we do with schools across the South West is an honour. At the heart of our EYFS practice is a belief in nurturing, inclusive environments where every child feels a strong sense of belonging.
“Through high-quality teaching, rich oracy and language, immersive literacy and numeracy, and purposeful play, children at Zouch build the secure foundations they need to thrive. This recognition highlights our continued focus on equity, meaningful relationships, and strong partnerships with families, ensuring the very best start for every child."
Find out more about the Reception Networks programme.