Ravensden CofE Primary Academy Nursery Review

Large bi-fold doors connect Wrens’ nursery room to a secure outdoor area, giving this school nursery a clear indoor and outdoor identity. Ravensden Primary Pre-school takes children aged two to four. Its home is The Nest, a separate building shared with the Reception class, within Ravensden CofE Primary Academy.

This is a Church of England school nursery with opportunities to join wider school life. Wrens children have taken part in the school’s VE Day celebrations, for example, so their experience extends beyond their own room. Ofsted judged early years provision Good at the inspection on 3 and 4 July 2023. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision rather than a separately inspected nursery.

Indoor and outdoor learning follow the Early Years curriculum. For parents, the practical emphasis is on children’s developing skills and understanding, with progress checked throughout their preschool education. A Two Year Progress check assesses children at age two; continuing assessment then follows the Early Years Framework. This gives staff a basis for tracking development before the move to school.

The nursery room and its secure outdoor space provide distinct places for learning. Large bi-fold doors link the two. Shared activities with the Reception class add another dimension: preschool children have joined a visit to Summerfields miniature railways for a train ride. These are examples of joint experiences, rather than a promise of a fixed outing programme.

In July 2023, the early years curriculum was being implemented well, and children were learning to cooperate in both work and play. Tolerant attitudes were also developing from early years. Learning alongside other children therefore has a social purpose as well as a curricular one.

An EYFS lead supports the preschool team, which includes preschool assistants and an early years learning support assistant. First-aid roles are included within that team. Parents can join stay-and-play sessions, attend open mornings and themed celebrations, and discuss their child’s needs and progress with staff. These opportunities give families a part in nursery life and a route for sharing concerns.

Lunches come from Aspens, with cooking taking place at Roxton Academy before meals are delivered to Ravensden. The menu works on a three-week cycle. Parents order and pay online ahead of the meal, either earlier or on the preceding day; contact the school for current charges. Dietary requirements involving allergies, intolerances, religion or ethical choices are registered through a special diets form.

For additional needs, families can contact the SENDCo through the school office. Safeguarding concerns can also be raised with the office or another staff member. Ravensden participates in Operation Encompass, which shares information about domestic abuse incidents so the school can support affected children and families.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal school admissions route, using Bedford Borough Admissions, and meet the normal deadline.

Transition support is a separate matter. Preschool and Reception staff collaborate on activities and training, and the move between classes is gradual, shaped around each child. A transition report is shared with the receiving Reception teacher, whether the child stays at Ravensden or moves elsewhere. That makes the handover useful beyond this school too.

Wrens runs during school term time. Confirm the current days and session pattern with the school before arranging childcare. The preschool finish is 3:15pm. Wraparound care is available from age three; Early Birds runs from 8:00am to 8:45am, while Fun Til Five operates from 3:30pm to 5:00pm on Monday to Thursday.

Children from families with limited income may qualify for Two Year Old funding. Early Years Premium support is also described for preschool children aged three and over. For enquiries, contact admin@ravensdenprimary.org or call 01234 771316. Visit appointments can be booked by email.