Dealing with school uncertainty

[Kes]

Can anyone who's been in this position offer any help?

We have a place at a school in September for our daughter but it was quite far down our list and we're keeping our fingers crossed for an appeal/coming up on the waiting list at our second choice (we've given up on the first choice).

So - how do I prepare my daughter to starting school when we're not totally sure which school it will be? Has anyone started at one school and then moved to another after a few weeks/months? Did you warn your child that this might happen? She's young in her year group, only just turned four, but very excited about the idea of school, I just wish I could get excited with her.

Thanks

K

[Skegness]

I think I'd just tell her, with all the positive vibes you can muster, that she is going to one of two fantastic schools and you are not quite sure which one yet.

Personally I would be hugely reluctant to move a reception age child weeks or months into term, unless they were unhappy or the school was miles away and we were then offered the one next door or something quite major like that. I think at reception the important thing is that they feel settled and happy and most schools in Southwark are very good, so the chances are that she will be fine.

Do you feel able to say which school you have been allocated? Someone might be able to reassure you that their child has loved it. For example, my daughter is going to Hollydale, which some parents try and avoid, but my older children went there and thrived and my friend's daughter has just finished reception there and her parents are utterly thrilled by what a wonderful year she has had with a very talented and dedicated teacher. The school you have been given may surprise you.:)

[Jessie]

I agree with Skegness, be as positive as possible. Though I did move my child in reception year, after the Easter hols, for a couple of reasons.

[Kes]

Thanks skegness and Jessie.

I'm trying to keep it all as positive as possible with her, thankfully she seems to be very excited about the whole thing and not too bothered about specifics! I'm really not keen on the idea of moving her once term has started and very much hope I won't need to but it is possible and as she's my eldest, whichever school she ends up in will be part of our lives for a long time!