RISE Reception Networks
Rockmount Primary School is delighted to have been designated by the Department for Education as a Reception Network Lead School, as part of a national programme to strengthen Reception provision across England.
This designation followed a highly competitive national assessment process. The Department for Education recognised the strength of Rockmount’s Reception practice, the depth of expertise within our early years team, and the positive impact of our work both within school and beyond. We are extremely proud that our practice has been acknowledged at a national level.
As a Reception Network Lead School, Rockmount will contribute to regional improvement by bringing schools together to strengthen Reception provision, share effective practice, and improve outcomes for children at this critical stage of their education.
We are incredibly grateful to our staff, whose commitment and expertise have made this achievement possible, and we are excited to take on this new opportunity to champion excellence in early years education.
There are 5 lead schools in each region. Contact a lead school direct if you wish to get involved or access support from the network. Find your closest Lead School - Reception Networks
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 schools
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
About the Lead School
Rockmount Primary School is a Croydon maintained primary school recognised by the Department for Education as a Reception Network Lead School, reflecting the strength of its Reception provision and early years leadership.
The school is committed to evidence‑informed improvement and is currently working in partnership with Oracy Cambridge to strengthen oracy practice across the early years and the wider school. Through its Lead School role, Rockmount supports professional collaboration and the sharing of effective Reception practice rooted in real classroom experience.
As one of five lead schools in London, Rockmount Primary School will support schools in;
- Croydon
- Bromley
- Bexley
- Sutton
- Merton
RISE Reception Network: Expression of Interest and Mailing List
Thank you for your interest in joining Rockmount’s RISE Reception Network. Please complete this form if your school would like to be added to our mailing list and kept informed about upcoming network opportunities.
Following our meeting with the DfE on 23rd April 2026, confirmed dates for the RISE Reception Network sessions will be published soon. We will share updates and finalised dates with all registered schools as soon as possible.
Thank you for your patience and for your interest in being part of the RISE community.
Rockmount RISE email address: rise.network@rockmount.croydon.sch.uk