Thomas Reade Primary School Nursery

Mud kitchen exploration, nursery rhymes and time to follow a child's own interests give Thomas Reade's nursery its character. This is school-managed provision for three- and four-year-olds on the primary school site in Abingdon. The nursery class forms part of the Foundation Stage alongside Reception, with two nursery nurses leading the class.

Ofsted judged early years provision Good at the inspection on 19 and 20 March 2024. That judgement covers the school's early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery.

Play shapes the early years curriculum. Adult-led activities sit alongside uninterrupted play chosen by children, giving them opportunities both to learn with guidance and to pursue their own ideas. The school aims to develop independence as well as confidence: sharing, listening and taking turns are expectations that children practise together.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach connects communication, physical development and learning through exploration. Songs, stories and rhymes give children words to use in conversations with adults and other children. In March 2024, nursery children were learning many songs and rhymes, establishing an early connection with words and stories. Mathematical learning combines direct teaching with opportunities to explore ideas, with the school aiming for children to use their understanding in everyday situations.

Outside, the sandpit and mud kitchen provide materials to investigate; water activities and messy play add further sensory experiences. Children use the outdoor environment in all weathers. Physical play supports muscle development, while adults help children cooperate, ask questions and handle their feelings.

Topics provide a starting point rather than a fixed script. Books support speech and communication, and planning changes in response to children's interests and needs. The learning space changes too, allowing activities to develop as children progress.

Consistent routines and relationships with families are central to the school's early years approach. Seesaw lets parents engage with learning and contribute experiences from home. Each half term, families receive learning summaries explaining what children are exploring and how they can support it. This gives home conversations a practical connection to nursery activities.

For children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), parents are asked to raise already identified needs before enrolment. The school's process involves the class teacher, SENCO and parents, with advice from other professionals sought where appropriate. Parents participate in individual assessment. Urgent SEND enquiries go through the school office, providing a direct route for concerns that need prompt attention.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Parents must make a separate school application through Oxfordshire Admissions; registering for nursery does not replace that step.

Before entry to the Foundation Stage, children are invited to spend time in school during the preceding term. A parent induction meeting follows in the latter half of that term, covering the class and practical arrangements. These opportunities help families prepare for school entry. They are separate from the allocation of a Reception place.

Register your child directly with the school for a nursery place. Visits can be arranged by contacting the office on 01235 554795 or emailing office.2587@thomas-reade.oxon.sch.uk.

The setting is on Radley Road, Abingdon, OX14 3RR. Office hours are 8.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday, giving families a defined window for enquiries and arranging an appointment.