Welcome to The Oaks Reception Network

The Oaks is situated on a large council estate in an area characterised by high deprivation, a context reflected in our pupil profile. Socio-economic disadvantage is significant, with 85% of families falling into the lowest three deciles of the Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index (IDACI) and 35% of pupils receiving Pupil Premium funding. We support a considerable proportion of pupils with additional needs; 26% of pupils have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including 6.2% who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Furthermore, the student population is becoming increasingly diverse, with 24% of pupils identified as having English as an Additional Language (EAL), a percentage that is growing annually. The Reception intake draws from a wide network of settings, encompassing up to 15 feeder settings (mostly private, voluntary, and independent nurseries, plus some childminders). The intake is made up of 45-50% of pupils from our own nursery, while two large, local Private, Voluntary, and Independent (PVI) settings contribute another 20% of the intake. 

Our exemplary Early Years practice is founded upon a clear and ambitious vision. It is deeply rooted in our school’s overarching vision and values, which are encapsulated in our school motto - ‘striving for excellence’. A crucial feature of our vision is our dedication to equity, built on the belief that children entering Reception are less experienced, not less able. This belief underpins every interaction and support strategy, ensuring that all children are provided with the opportunities to succeed and flourish.

The aim of the Reception Network is to create a supportive, collaborative and school-led opportunity to learn from each other and support each other to secure the best for the children in Reception in Suffolk and Norfolk. It is not an accountability or inspection forum. Our network offers the opportunity to: 

*Explore key national and regional priorities with other professionals

*Share practical approaches to implement in Reception classes

*Create space to reflect and learn from each other 

*Signpost helpful resources and useful strategies

What we do

Tuesday 10th November 2026 - 10am to 2pm

Open Day. Come and see an outstanding Reception setting in action. 

As places for this event are limited, please register your interest by emailing - reception.network@theoaksprimary.co.uk

Meet the Team

Resource Hub

How to get involved

Would you like to join us? Email reception.network@theoaksprimary.co.uk to find out how.

Signposting