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Nursery at Dunmore Primary School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Space to explore and language to practise give Dunmore’s nursery its character. Open space and outdoor learning areas sit within the Early Years provision at Dunmore Primary School on Northcourt Road, Abingdon. Children can join at the beginning of the term after their third birthday.
The nursery has 78 part-time equivalent places, rather than 78 full-time places. In November 2025, Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision to meet the Expected standard. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.
Communication gives the learning a clear focus. In November 2025, early years staff demonstrated vocabulary and encouraged children to extend their spoken language. Activities gave children opportunities to explore, while adults helped them practise expressing themselves. For a nursery child, learning to explain an idea or ask for help is part of becoming comfortable in the group.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning here includes developing language, beginning to read and practising early writing. Across early years, children learn letter sounds and start putting those sounds together. Nursery children also have opportunities to practise writing. These are foundations for later learning.
Open space and outdoor areas provide settings for exploration. The nursery sits within the school’s Early Years provision, combining this physical space with activities and attention to individual children’s needs.
Settling is closely connected to relationships. In November 2025, staff understood children’s individual needs and responded sensitively to their emotions and social development. Even the youngest nursery children became comfortable quickly and felt part of the group. Early years staff also worked with families to help parents support learning at home.
For children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), Dunmore uses an Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle. An individual SEND Pupil Profile brings together needs, intended outcomes and support, with parents contributing to the process. Termly meetings with the class teacher review progress and agree the next outcomes. This gives families a recurring opportunity to discuss how support is working.
A phased start may be arranged for a child with SEND, according to their needs and in discussion with parents and, where necessary, external advisers.
Attending Dunmore Nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate online application through Oxfordshire County Council; there is no automatic transfer.
For entry in September 2027, the anticipated application window runs from 4 November 2026 to 15 January 2027, with both dates awaiting confirmation. Treat that timetable as provisional.
Transition support is a separate matter from admission. For children with SEND moving between classes, teachers have allocated time to share information, successful strategies and resources recommended by professionals. That helps the next teacher prepare for the child’s needs.
Provision runs during term time, with at least 15 funded hours each week. Families entitled to extended funding can access up to 15 additional hours, subject to availability. Extra paid sessions may be possible for children who are not eligible for the extended provision, also subject to availability. Ask the school for current charges. Wraparound care is offered too.
Nursery enquiries go directly to the school. Families can submit an Expression of Interest form and arrange a visit by email or by calling 01235 520550. Alongside Northcourt Road, the site has a back entrance accessible in the morning and afternoon via Farm Road, South Avenue, Holland Road and Sellwood Road.
Children are eligible from the beginning of the term after their third birthday.
There are 78 part-time equivalent places.
Families entitled to the extended 30-hour provision can access up to 15 additional hours alongside the initial 15 hours, subject to availability.
No. You must apply separately online through Oxfordshire County Council. There is no automatic transfer from nursery.
Contact the school by email or call 01235 520550 to arrange a visit to the Early Years provision.
