Early Years at Balksbury Federation

At Balksbury Federation, early years learning is joyful, ambitious, and carefully sequenced. Our experienced Year  R team blends play-based exploration with high-quality teaching, rich outdoor learning opportunites, and strong pastoral care. We work in close partnership with families and pre-schools to ensure every child feels known, nurtured, and ready to thrive from day one. Our carefully tailored Butterflies transition programme supports children to build confidence, form friendships, and settle smoothly into school life.

Butterflies Transition

Once your child’s place at Balksbury Federation is confirmed, we invite families to join our Butterflies Transition Programme, designed to make starting school a positive and exciting experience.

• Parent Information Evening – Thursday 4th June 2026
  Families are warmly welcomed to this evening event where you’ll receive all the key information you need for September. It’s a chance to meet members of our federated team, learn more about our curriculum, and ask any questions to help you feel prepared and confident.

• Butterflies Transition Session 1 – Thursday 18th June 2026

• Butterflies Transition Session 2 – Thursday 25th June 2026

• Butterflies Transition Session 3 – Tuesday 7th July 2026 
  During these three sessions, children visit each of our Year R classrooms and meet all the teachers in the team. This gradual introduction helps them explore their new environment, begin forming friendships, and feel comfortable with the whole staff team before September

  How to Apply for a Place (September 2026)

  Families can apply for a Reception place through Hampshire County Council’s online Education Portal.  Applications close at midnight on 15 January 2026, and offers are made on 16 April 2026. Full guidance on how the application process can be found here: https://www.hants.gov.uk/educationandlearning/admissions/applicationprocess/yearR