And there is no better way to mark the huge moment than with lovely photos of the classes in their first school uniforms, with the first class mates and first teachers.
Every year Chronicle & Echo features a photo round-up of reception classes, from pictures submitted by schools.
The pictures show children beaming proudly surrounded by their new class mates. The pictures appeared in the print edition of this newspaper last month, now we are publishing the images online.
Below are 43 pictures of reception classes across Northampton and beyond – spot anyone you know?
9. First Class pictures in Northampton
St James CE Primary School - Hedgehogs Class. Photo: Submitted
10. First Class pictures in Northampton
Northampton International Academy - Pacific Class. Photo: Submitted
11. First Class pictures in Northampton
Northampton International Academy - Atlantic Class. Photo: Submitted
12. First Class pictures in Northampton
Moulton Primary School Early Years - Spencer Class. Photo: Submitted