Starting School

The catchment area for Monks Eleigh includes Chelsworth, although many parents have chosen to send their children from outside this area. All prospective parents are required to complete form CAF1 and return it to school from November onwards, closing in January prior to admission the following September. Online applications may also be made via the Suffolk County Council website.

Children start school in the September of the academic year in which they are five.  They attend part time (mornings only) until the start of the term during which they have their fifth birthday. After the first half term they are encouraged to stay at school for lunch. This one starting date helps them to make friends with their year group and gives them the benefit of three terms in the Foundation/Reception class.

An induction programme for new children and their parents is organised during the summer term. At the end of their Foundation/Reception year, all the children usually move together into the next year group.