Reception Network
Led by Evelyn Street Primary Academy 
Evelyn Street Primary Academy is pleased to be awarded a DfE‑designated Reception Network Lead School status - one of only five schools in the North West to receive this designation.
As the lead school for Warrington Primary Academy Trust, Evelyn Street Primary Academy brings strong trust‑level expertise and proven reception practice to schools across the region.
The Reception Network brings schools together to strengthen reception provision, share effective practice, and improve outcomes for children at this critical stage of their education.
What Schools Gain
- Learn from real classrooms
Termly in‑person visits and open days to observe high‑quality reception practice, environments and interactions in action.
- Collaborate with peers
Half‑termly virtual network meetings focused on shared challenges, national priorities and practical problem‑solving.
- Access proven resources
Evidence‑informed tools and exemplars, including planning materials and curriculum guidance developed by schools.
- Get the right support
Clear signposting to specialist programmes such as Maths Hubs, English Hubs and NELI, where more targeted support is needed.
Why Schools Join 
- Improve Good Level of Development (GLD) outcomes
- Strengthen confidence and expertise in reception teaching and leadership
- Develop stronger transitions into reception and on to Key Stage 1
- Benefit from school‑led professional development, rooted in real practice
- For MATs: gain external perspectives that complement internal improvement work
Who the Network Is For
- Reception teachers and EYFS leads
- Senior leaders with responsibility for early years
- Schools and trusts committed to strengthening reception provision
Evelyn Street Primary Academy is one of just five lead schools covering the whole of the North West Region. Our core areas of work with reception leaders are: Cheshire East, Cheshire West & Chester, Halton, Salford, Stockport, Trafford and Warrington.
Get Involved
Schools interested in joining the Reception Network, or finding out more, can contact receptionnetwork@wpat.uk to register their details on our mailing list.
A programme of activity is currently being finalised and will be shared with registered schools as soon as it is confirmed.
About the Lead School
Evelyn Street Primary Academy is the lead academy within Warrington Primary Academy Trust (WPAT). WPAT is a growing multi‑academy trust operating across Halton, Warrington and Cheshire West and Chester. The school has also been designated a centre for excellence, being awarded Teaching School Hub status, an Attendance and Behaviour Lead School status, and is a founding member of the Liverpool City Region & Beyond Early Years Stronger Practice Hub.
