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Nursery at Aysgarth 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A shared enclosed garden, Forest School and weekly swimming give Aysgarth’s nursery a day that stretches beyond its classroom. Play leads the learning. Children can join from the term in which they turn three, with a minimum of three morning sessions suggested initially.
Boys and girls attend the nursery within Oak House, Aysgarth’s Nursery and Pre-Preparatory Department in Newton-le-Willows, Bedale. It sits beside the Prep School, giving the younger children access to the school’s grounds and facilities. Nursery and Reception occupy neighbouring classrooms: the nursery has its own room while sharing a garden with the next year group.
The day starts at 8.30am, with circle time at 9.00am before focused early years activities. A drink and biscuit, playtime and another activity period divide the morning into manageable parts. Some children finish at 12.10pm; those staying for the afternoon have further playtime, quiet time and learning activities, followed by fruit and a drink. Story time brings the day towards its 3.30pm finish.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) gives this play a purpose. Initially, the emphasis falls on movement, communication and emotional and social development. Children explore alongside adults, follow their interests and practise relating to other children. Daily number activities and phonics introduce more structured learning alongside that play, so early reading, writing and mathematical experiences have a place too.
Outdoor learning has two settings. The enclosed garden is accessible from both early years classrooms throughout the year, while Forest School takes children into the wider grounds for practical exploration. This gives children opportunities to cooperate and communicate beyond their indoor activities. Music and swimming lessons take place every week, adding different experiences to the nursery routine.
Teachers act as key workers, helping children build relationships with familiar adults as well as their peers. Staff working with the young children are qualified and experienced, and the nursery works to a ratio of 1:8. The school aims for a close partnership with parents, making the home-to-school relationship part of its approach.
Once a place has been accepted, EYFS settling sessions and a stay-and-play session give families opportunities to become familiar with school life before starting. Food and rest also punctuate the day: a morning biscuit, afternoon fruit and a quiet period sit alongside lunch arrangements. Nursery lunch and supervision during the lunch break are charged separately; families should obtain current charges from the school.
Learning support across the Pre-Prep includes early identification and assessment, with help delivered individually, in small groups or within class according to need. In June 2023, ISI’s compliance inspection confirmed that the relevant EYFS requirements were met; no further action was required from that inspection. This was a compliance check, rather than a nursery quality grade.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Plan for a separate Reception application rather than assuming that a nursery place settles the next stage. Aysgarth’s admissions process involves registration, a meeting with the headmaster and an offer before enrolment.
Classroom familiarity is a separate benefit. Nursery and Reception work closely together and share the enclosed garden, so children can become accustomed to a space used by the next class. That supports continuity in their surroundings; it should not be treated as an admissions advantage.
Bookings use morning and afternoon sessions, with the nursery fee structure covering four to ten sessions per week. Additional sessions carry a charge. Before School Club and After School Club are also charged, using half-hour blocks.
For three- and four-year-olds, Aysgarth offers up to three funded sessions weekly, described as 15 hours. Funding begins in the term after the third birthday, and funded places may be limited. Parents can pay for additional provision, so the chosen attendance pattern matters when planning costs.
Enquiries go to admissions@aysgarthschool.co.uk or 01677 451021. Families can arrange a personal visit or attend an Open Day, with opportunities to meet staff and discuss their child’s needs.
Children are welcomed from the term of their third birthday. A minimum of three morning sessions is suggested initially.
Children start at 8.30am. The morning finishes at 12.10pm where appropriate, and the school day ends at 3.30pm.
Yes. Nursery children have swimming and music lessons every week.
For three- and four-year-olds, up to three sessions a week, described as 15 hours, can be funded. Funding starts in the term after the third birthday, and funded places may be limited.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Plan separately for Reception admission; adjacent classrooms and a shared garden support familiarity, rather than establishing an admissions entitlement.
