When we welcome our Reception children into school in September, we know that there are a lot of new things for them to get used to.  To help them with this we pair them up with a pupil from Year 4, who becomes their ‘special friend’ for the year and helps them to settle into school.

This gives the Year 4 pupils an important responsibility, ensuring that their little friend is well looked after, happy and feels safe, especially during playtimes.

The Reception pupils know they have someone bigger who will look out for them, play with them and always have a smile and a friendly face.  The children form strong bonds and it is always a pleasure to see how this grows over the course of the year.

Year 4 and Reception: Reading Buddies in Action! 📚

As part of our National Year of Reading 2026 celebrations, our Year 4 pupils have teamed up with Reception children to become Reading Buddies.

The National Year of Reading 2026 is a special year created to help children and adults across the UK enjoy reading more. Everyone is encouraged to explore all kinds of stories, books, comics, magazines, websites and even audiobooks, with the theme ‘Go All In’. Throughout the year, we’ll be running exciting events and challenges to help everyone find a type of reading they love.

This wonderful partnership is all about sharing the joy of books, building confidence, and fostering a love of reading across our school. Year 4 students have been brilliant role models, patiently listening and encouraging their younger friends, while Reception children have loved showing off their growing reading skills.

It’s amazing to see the smiles, the stories, and the friendships forming through the power of reading!