What are Reception Networks?
Reception Networks are part of the government’s Best Start in Life strategy and the Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) universal offer. They are designed to help schools strengthen the quality of Reception-year provision through school-led, locally delivered support.
These networks focus on sharing strong, evidence-informed practice so that schools can learn from one another in practical and meaningful ways. Each network is led by a school with sustained strengths in early years provision and leadership. Lead schools work with others in their local area to support improvement in Reception teaching, provision and leadership.
What schools can access through the Reception Network?
Through the Reception Network, schools will be able to access:
• regular opportunities to discuss Reception-year practice with peers
• visits and open days to observe Reception provision in action
• shared resources and approaches that support high-quality teaching and leadership in Reception
• opportunities to engage with evidence-informed practice and reflect on what works well in their own setting
The programme is intended to create accessible and meaningful opportunities for schools to learn from one another, with the wider aim of improving outcomes for children and helping more pupils achieve a Good Level of Development (GLD) by the end of Reception.
Oakdene’s Role as a Lead School
As a Reception Network Lead School, Oakdene Primary Academy will:
• host termly visits and open days so school leaders can see exceptional Reception practice in action
• hold half-termly virtual network meetings to discuss Reception provision, leadership and improvement
• share approaches, resources and practical examples of effective practice
• work proactively with schools across the named boroughs to encourage engagement with the Reception improvement offer
• help signpost schools to wider support where more targeted improvement work may be needed
Reception Networks are designed to complement, not replace, existing local and regional networks. The role of the Lead School is to engage, motivate and connect schools so Reception remains a clear school improvement priority.
Why This Matters
The Reception year lays the foundation for children’s future success in school and beyond. Strong early years practice helps children develop the confidence, language, independence and learning behaviours they need to thrive.
At Oakdene, we believe that sharing effective practice across schools strengthens outcomes for all children. We’re proud to lead this work across our network boroughs and to contribute to raising the quality of Reception provision more widely across the North East.
Schools in Our Network Area
Oakdene Primary Academy will support schools in:
• Stockton on Tees
• Middlesbrough
• Hartlepool
• Redcar & Cleveland