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Nursery at Altrincham Preparatory 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Language, early independence and learning through play give Little APS its character. Altrincham Preparatory School’s early years provision welcomes boys from age two, with Nursery and Pre-School entry points. It is part of an independent school, rather than a separate nursery provider.
At the ISI inspection of 6 to 8 May 2026, Nursery had 35 children on roll. That is an attendance figure, not a capacity. The early years site was on West Road, a short walk from the school’s other site.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines communication, physical development and social learning with the beginnings of reading and mathematics. In May 2026, early years teaching supported good progress, with activities adjusted to children’s development and interests. Letter sounds were taught with visual cues and clear adult modelling, helping children connect spoken language with reading.
For older children, the Pre-School summer 2026 curriculum gives concrete examples: Read, Write, Inc phonics, conversations about stories, planting seeds and exploring how plants grow. Maths includes comparing quantities and making repeating patterns with natural materials. These activities connect early number work with things children can handle and observe.
Creative learning includes colour mixing and collage, while athletics introduces jumping, throwing and running. Pretend play gives children another way to express ideas. These are Pre-School examples, rather than a timetable for every two-year-old.
Bank Place’s original early years conversion created a broad Pre-School classroom with bay windows and a separate room for the youngest boys. This was a building planned around younger children’s learning spaces. One caution concerns assessment: in May 2026, PE had no formal system for tracking, assessing and planning children’s progress. Inspectors also recommended accurate assessment records and consistent use of them to plan learning across non-core subjects.
A nursery manager with a Level 6 Childhood Studies qualification works alongside a deputy with Early Years Teacher Status and nursery practitioners. In May 2026, early years supervision was effective, and adults used praise, conversation during play and familiar routines to teach behaviour. Kindness king and golden moments recognised considerate actions.
Speech and language support starts with GL’s WellComm screener across the early years. Parents have two formal consultation evenings and at least two written reports annually, depending on their child’s age and stage. Phonics workshops and a workbook linking home and school also support shared learning.
Additional needs. Support depends on the Learning Support Department being able to meet the child’s requirements; highly specialised, intensive intervention is outside its facilities. Families should weigh that limit alongside the targeted help available. The EYFS facilities include an accessible toilet and shower.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. The June 2025 admissions policy bases entry offers on registration order, with an exception for brothers, subject to capacity. Nursery attendance itself is not a priority criterion. Reception admissions use the school’s registration route, through its office or online form.
Preparation for the change is a separate matter. The Pre-School summer curriculum includes discussing feelings about Reception and sharing worries or things children anticipate. That supports emotional preparation; it does not confer an admissions advantage.
Little APS is advertised with year-round nursery care. Enquiries and personal tours can be arranged through admissions@altprep.co.uk or 0161 928 3366.
The 2025–2026 fee structure separates school fees from additional spending on after-school care, trips and extracurricular activities. Tax-Free Childcare or childcare vouchers can contribute towards fees through the term a boy turns five, but the two schemes cannot be combined. Refer to the school for current charges.
For Pre-School children using the longer Highbury after-school session, high tea is included. Regular after-school bookings use the Parent Portal; occasional bookings go through the office. Cancellation requires 24 hours’ notice to avoid the full session charge.
Little APS welcomes boys from age two. The admissions policy identifies Nursery entry at two and Pre-School entry at three.
No. The June 2025 policy uses registration order and a capacity-dependent brother exception; nursery attendance is not a priority criterion.
The Pre-School summer 2026 curriculum includes Read, Write, Inc phonics, story conversations, early number work, planting, collage and pretend play.
Children across the early years are assessed with GL’s WellComm screener to identify speech and language needs and opportunities for early intervention.
Contact admissions@altprep.co.uk or 0161 928 3366 to arrange a personal tour.
