Port Isaac Academy
Starting school
Starting school is a big step for both children and their families. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves as this new chapter begins. At our school, we understand how important this transition is, and we’re here to make it as positive and smooth as possible.
From the very first day, we aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment where every child feels safe, valued and ready to learn. Our team works closely with parents and carers to help each child settle in happily and confidently, building strong foundations for their learning journey ahead.
Our learning environment
Our early years learning environment has been designed to inspire, delight and create intrigue, both inside and outside.
The environment is carefully crafted around the children to provide them the opportunity to follow their own interests, rehearse taught skills and deepen existing knowledge through challenge.
The classroom is positive and nurturing. It is where your child will feel confident to tackle challenges and will not be afraid of making mistakes.
Your child will have the opportunity to flow between the classroom and outdoor area, allowing them to access multiple areas.
The outdoor area will encourage your child to explore their learning in a practical and tactile way. For many children, these are the environments to stimulate their learning growth and development.
We place a huge importance on the benefits of physical activity within young children and how the outdoor environment can support physical and also emotional wellbeing for many.
Meet our early years team
Mel Waters, EYFS teacher
From childhood, sharing stories with loved ones was a cherished part of my life. Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne captured my heart with its gentle rhythm, warmth, and timeless wisdom, showing how friendship and simple joys shape who we are. Those adventures made the world feel kinder and filled me with wonder. Now, as a teacher, I see the same magic in my pupils. Stories help us make sense of the world, connect across cultures, and uncover meaning in ways that feel natural. They teach without preaching, guiding students to discover truth, empathy, and imagination through shared experiences.
Kate Stark, EYFS HLTA
As a child, I loved being read to by my parents, snuggled up with my brother as we laughed at silly voices in The Billy Goats Gruff and Little Rabbit Foo Foo. Those moments sparked my love of stories. I devoured the Animal Ark and Famous Five series, then stayed up late reading Harry Potter under my duvet. Even as an adult, books like Jamaica Inn have kept me hooked. Reading brings the same joy it did in childhood—the excitement, anticipation, and endless possibilities. Through books, we can live countless adventures, feel deeply, and escape into worlds beyond our own.
Ready, steady, school!
Parents and carers have an important part to play in preparing their children for school. If parents and carers feel positive about their child starting school, this will quickly translate to their child.
There are a few things that can make your child’s transition into school a little easier. Below you will find guidance to prepare and support your child in the build up to September.
If you have queries or worries about your child starting school, do not hesitate to contact us. A member of our early years team will be happy to support you and your child. We want to ensure that the move to Port Isaac Academy is an exciting and positive experience for every child.