Joining Reception

Welcome to Reception!
We’d be delighted to welcome you and your child to join the Reception Year at Derwent Vale. Starting school is a big milestone, and we’re here to make it happy, calm, and exciting. In Reception we learn through play, build independence, and nurture curiosity every day—indoors and outdoors.

Come and see us

We would be absolutely thrilled to welcome you and your family for a visit to our wonderful school, where you can experience our warm, nurturing environment first-hand and see our children learning, playing and flourishing.

To arrange a tour, please get in touch with us:

admin@derwentvale.cumbria.sch.uk
01900 601233

We very much look forward to meeting you and showing you all that makes our school such a special place.

Why choose our Reception?

  • A warm, welcoming and safe environment that empowers our children, builds confidence and develops a sense of belonging
  • Highly-skilled and experienced Early Years Specialist staff who guide our children on their development journey
  • A child-centered, play based curriculum that develops confidence, builds a love of learning and fosters positive friendships
  • Clear communication with parents so you always feel part of your child's learning

How to apply for a Reception place

Derwent Vale Primary and Nursery School is a Local Authority Maintained Community School. Our Pupil Admission Number (PAN) is 15, meaning we can offer small sized classes where children receive high-levels of expert support from our staff team. 

Applications for starting school in September 2026 should be made on-line at https://www.cumberland.gov.uk/schools-and-education/apply-school-place-or-change-schools/apply-reception-place.  The deadline for on-time applications was 15th January 2026.  However, you will be able to make a late application.

At this moment in time all children reaching statutory school age may start school full-time in the September of the school year in which the child reaches their 5th birthday.  Legally children do not have to take up their place until the start of the term after their 5th birthday.  The offer of a place can be deferred until that time. 

When the Local Authority allocates places to children reaching statutory school age, there may be a greater demand than there are places available.  In cases like this over subscription criteria will apply in the allocation of places. 

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