Fosse Way School Nursery Review

Stories, individual learning and specialist needs shape the early years provision at Fosse Way School in Radstock. Nursery sits within a special school catering for children with moderate or severe learning difficulties, including children with communication and language difficulties. The early years admits children from age 3; in January 2026, none of those attending were under 4. All pupils at the school have an education, health and care plan.

The central consideration for families is the quality of early learning. Ofsted's January 2026 inspection judged early years Needs attention. Improvement work was underway, but its effect on children's learning had yet to be demonstrated.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides the curriculum framework. Its strands bring together learning about words and numbers, movement, relationships, creativity and the world around children. Fosse Way organises this learning through a cycle of topics lasting two years, with Ourselves among the themes. The school describes an approach that allows children to work at their individual pace.

Drama groups, projects involving animation and film, visiting artists and trips beyond school supplement the early years and infant curriculum. Staff also give stories and early reading habits a prominent place. These provide concrete points of interest for families considering how their child might engage with learning.

However, in January 2026, teaching was insufficiently matched to children's existing skills. Staff lacked some of the subject expertise needed, and children had too few chances to repeat essential learning. Adult interactions did too little to develop language, movement and social and emotional skills. Some resources were unsuitable.

Teaching and learning environment. Improvement priorities included staff expertise, meaningful exchanges with children and better use of the learning environment. For families, the issue is how these changes translate into appropriate activities and repeated practice for their own child.

Settling involves collaboration with families and the nurseries children previously attended. In January 2026, this helped children become settled over time and supported their safety. That cooperation matters for children bringing individual communication and care needs into a new setting.

Intimate care was carried out safely, although recording arrangements required strengthening at that time. Care and teaching therefore need separate consideration: safe personal care sat alongside significant weaknesses in early learning.

Food is Fun supplements the early years and infant curriculum. The programme aims to widen children's food choices, making food exploration part of learning rather than simply a mealtime matter.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Confirm the next-stage placement process with the school when planning your child's move to Reception.

Fosse Way School is on Longfellow Road, Radstock, Bath, BA3 3AL. General enquiries can be made by calling 01761 412198 or emailing office@fossewayschool.com.