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Nursery at The Forest Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Vocabulary and independence give this nursery its educational character. At The Forest Academy on Thornton Road in Kendray, Barnsley, children can begin nursery education from the term following their third birthday. The provision belongs to the school's Foundation Stage, placing these first experiences within a school setting.
Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Outstanding at its inspection on 2 and 3 February 2023. This was an early years judgement within the school inspection. In February 2023, staff's knowledge of the early years curriculum and their attention to children's vocabulary were clear strengths, with children developing concentration, persistence and independence.
Learning centres on language and the habits children need to tackle something new. In February 2023, classroom activities and resources were chosen to support learning, while vocabulary development received sustained attention. For parents, the emphasis is on both what children learn and how confidently they approach it.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides the curriculum context. Here, its focus includes building language and helping children become increasingly independent learners. In February 2023, subject leaders worked with the early years team to connect nursery teaching with later learning.
Rocket Phonics is used across EYFS. The programme links written letters with spoken sounds, then helps children combine sounds to read words and separate them for spelling. These are the reading and writing skills the school's early years approach develops; they should not be mistaken for a timetable of identical lessons for every nursery child.
Settling starts with a conversation at home. Every child joining the Foundation Stage is offered a home visit before starting, giving families an opportunity to discuss additional needs or concerns. The class teacher and special educational needs coordinator (SENCO) liaise with parents and professionals involved with the child, so support can be planned before the start.
For children needing additional help, individual support plans are reviewed three times a year and shared with parents. Speech and Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy are among the services that can inform further support. The school buildings and playground accommodate wheelchair access, and equipment can be adapted to individual needs.
A Parent Support Advisor and Learning and Family Support Mentor also help families. Dietary needs and food preferences can be discussed with the school office. The summer 2025 school menu included vegetarian alternatives, jacket potatoes and sandwiches; this describes the school's meal choices for that period.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through the normal admissions process: Barnsley residents use Barnsley Primary Admissions, while families elsewhere apply through their home authority.
For the 2025/26 admissions cycle, nursery attendance conferred no oversubscription priority. Choosing nursery should therefore be a decision about the nursery experience, with the Reception application treated separately.
For children with SEND changing classes, information is handed to the next teacher and a planning meeting reviews their support. Transition resources can also be provided where they would help a child. This is continuity of care, separate from admission entitlement.
Funded nursery education covers 15 hours each week from the term after a child's third birthday. Entry is typically in September, January or April. Provision of 30 hours is also offered to families eligible for the additional hours.
To enquire, contact Admissions and complete the nursery application form. Nursery visits can be arranged by contacting the school. The school office can be reached on 01226 284 719 or at info@theforest-academy.co.uk.
School uniform is expected for all children. Options include a green cardigan or sweatshirt, grey or black bottoms and a white or green polo shirt. Logos are optional, and clothing may be bought new or used, giving families flexibility over purchases.
Funded nursery education begins from the term following their third birthday, with entry typically in September, January or April.
Yes. Alongside 15 hours each week, the nursery offers 30 hours for families eligible for the additional hours.
Yes. Contact the school to arrange a nursery visit.
Every child entering the Foundation Stage is offered a home visit before starting. Families can discuss concerns and additional needs with staff.
No. A separate Reception application is required through Barnsley Primary Admissions for Barnsley residents, or through the family's home local authority elsewhere.
