Each region has five reception networks, creating a national network working collectively to raise standards across early years education. The lead schools in Yorkshire and the Humber are:
- Beech Hill School (The Family of Learning Trust)
- New Mill Infant School (Learning Accord Multi Academy Trust)
- Outwood Primary Academy Woodlands (Outwood Grange Academies Trust)
- Thornton Dale CofE Primary School (Elevate Multi Academy Trust)
- Whitkirk Primary School (Red Kite Learning Trust)
What Reception Networks offer:
Each network is led by a lead school, selected for its strong and sustained reception outcomes. These schools will work with other schools in their area to:
- facilitate professional discussions about teaching, learning, and leadership in reception
- host open days and visits so peers can observe high quality reception practice
- share resources, tools, and approaches that help strengthen provision across the early years
- hold regular virtual network meetings to make collaboration accessible, flexible and open to all schools in the network
This collaborative model is designed to complement - rather than replace - existing early years support, including stronger practice hubs, English and maths hubs and the work local authorities are doing to strengthen reception and GLD outcomes as part of the best start in life strategy. It ensures schools can easily access reception specific expertise when they need it.
What Schools Gain?
- Learn from real classrooms
Opportunities to observe high‑quality Reception environments, interactions and teaching approaches through in‑person learning visits. - Collaborate with peers
Half-termly virtual network meetings that focus on shared challenges, national priorities and applied problem‑solving in Reception provision. - Access effective resources
Evidence‑informed tools and exemplars, including planning materials and curriculum guidance developed by schools. - Connect to wider support
Clear signposting to specialist programmes and partners, including Stronger Practice Hubs, Best Start Family Hubs, and English and Maths Hubs, where additional targeted support may be beneficial.
Why Schools join the RISE Reception Network?
- Strengthen Reception practice to support improved Good Level of Development (GLD) outcomes
- Develop confidence and expertise in Reception teaching and leadership
- Support stronger transitions into Reception and onward to Key Stage 1
- Engage in school‑led professional development rooted in real classroom practice
- Benefit from collaborative working and shared learning across school.
Who the Network Is For?
- Reception teachers, EYFS leads and headteachers
- Other senior leaders with responsibility for early years
- Schools committed to strengthening Reception provision and outcomes
How you can become involved:
Thank you for your interest in joining Thornton Dale's RISE Reception Network. Please complete the form below of your school would like to be added to our mailing list and kept informed about upcoming network opportunities.
Thank you for your interest in being part of the RISE community.
Thornton Dale's RISE email address: earlyyears@thorntondaleprimaryschool.org
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