DfE Funding Secured for New Partnership to Improve Children’s Transition into School

Ark, Ark Start and the London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) have secured funding from the Department for Education (DfE) to establish a new Early Education Partnership in North West London, aimed at improving children’s transition from nursery into Reception.

The partnership brings together seven schools and Early Years settings, including two Ark primary academies, Ark Start Brunel and four LEYF nurseries, to identify and tackle barriers to school readiness, particularly for children experiencing disadvantage and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The first phase will focus on gathering insights from parents, Early Years educators and Reception teachers to understand the challenges facing local children and families and develop practical solutions. The findings will help strengthen collaboration between nurseries and schools, improve support for families and ensure children experience a smoother transition into Reception.

Dr June O’Sullivan OBE, CEO of LEYF and the London Institute of Early Years (LIEY), said: “Children are most ready for school when they feel confident, curious and connected. When schools and Early Years settings work together and build seamless transitions, children benefit. This partnership will help us better understand and support the factors that enable children to start school with confidence, curiosity and a sense of belonging.”

Ark said: “Children’s experiences before they arrive at school have an enormous influence on how confidently they make that transition. This partnership gives us an exciting opportunity to work much more closely with nurseries, families and local organisations, learning from one another and making sure children get the support they need before and as they start Reception.

Ark Start said: “At Ark Start, we see every day what a difference high-quality early education and strong relationships with families can make. But supporting children to be ready for school cannot sit with any one nursery, school or organisation. We’re excited to bring together expertise from across the partnership and, most importantly, listen to families and practitioners about what would make the biggest difference locally.”

Parents, educators and local stakeholders in the local area are being invited to share their experiences through a survey running until the end of December 2026.

• As a parent/carer:https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/9WWxqmgBMG
• Early Years / Primary school settings: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/HjvKXvXn3B
• Wider stakeholders:  https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/pc8LVRbMyL