New report on the early experiences of Primary School

Date: 31st May 2012
Category: Education, Leisure and Cultural Activities
Author: Scottish Government

A new report from the Growing Up in Scotland study provides new information about experiences of starting primary school for children and their parents.

The findings provide a better understanding of the factors which lead to a positive early experience of school for children; the early engagement of parents with the school and their child's teacher; and the many practical issues associated with starting school such as school choice, transport, lunches, homework and wrap-around care.

With regards to entry to school, 87% of children started school the year they were eligible.

In terms of transition to school, most parents felt that their child had been ready to start school but children starting school aged under five and those starting at over 5.5 years (and more likely to have been deferred) were more likely to be perceived as less ready.

Children perceived to be less ready for school by their parents had higher social, emotional and behavioural difficulties and lower cognitive development scores.
Almost all parents (99%) had undertaken some activities to help prepare their child for school, such as visiting the school, talking to their child about school and practising letters and numbers.

• Find more information here.
• Read the full report here.