Alston Primary School Nursery Review

Language gives Alston’s nursery its focus. In February 2025, the early years curriculum placed a deliberate emphasis on communication, responding to gaps in children’s language development. For parents, that makes learning to express ideas and understand others a central part of the provision.

This is Alston Primary School’s own nursery in Bordesley Green, Birmingham. Children join in the academic year after turning three. Nursery capacity is 39 full-time-equivalent places, a measure of provision rather than a headcount of children attending part-time.

Two three-hour sessions shape the nursery timetable: mornings run from 8:30am to 11:30am, and afternoons from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. These give families distinct morning and afternoon attendance windows.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the framework for learning and care for children up to five. It brings together early reading and number work with movement, relationships, communication, creativity and understanding the world. The emphasis is broader than preparation for formal lessons: children’s social and physical development count alongside their learning.

At Alston, communication has a specific purpose within that framework. In February 2025, the early years curriculum was carefully planned around children’s starting points, with language development a focus. That gives parents a useful distinction: language is part of the curriculum’s design, rather than an isolated extra activity.

For children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), parents take part in planning support with the class teacher, teaching assistant, SENDCo and inclusion team. Reviews happen through telephone discussions or meetings in person. Families therefore have a role in deciding provision and reviewing how it fits their child.

Support can progress from adapted classroom teaching to small-group work or individual help, according to need. Children receiving the more intensive levels of support have a One Page Profile so adults working with them can understand the help required.

Physical access also deserves attention. A ramp serves the EYFS area. For children with physical disabilities, planning before admission involves considering individual needs and drawing up a personal management plan with the family and relevant professionals.

Nursery attendance neither guarantees a Reception place nor gives priority. Parents must make a separate application, even when their child already attends Alston’s nursery. Choose the nursery for the provision itself; keep the Reception application as a separate task.

For September 2027 entry, apply online through Birmingham City Council’s school admissions service at www.birmingham.gov.uk/schooladmissions by 15 January 2027. The application period starts in September 2026. These arrangements apply to that entry cycle, so families planning a later start should use the timetable for their child’s year.

Nursery applications go directly to the school. Admissions enquiries can be made on 0121 464 1569, giving families a direct contact for starting the application process.

If applications exceed nursery places, a waiting list operates throughout the academic year. Positions can move in either direction as applications are added under the admission criteria. Being on the list is therefore a continuing process rather than a fixed place in a queue.