Forestdale Primary School Nursery Review

Active play, creative work and time outdoors give Forestdale’s nursery its character. The youngest children learn through exploration and practical activities, with nature-friendly grounds extending their learning beyond the classroom. This is the nursery provision within Forestdale Primary School in Frankley, Birmingham, rather than a separate setting.

The school’s early years education covers ages 3-5. In October 2022, the nursery operated as one part-time class. Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Good at the inspection on 19 and 20 October 2022; that judgement covers early years within the school, rather than a separate nursery inspection.

Development Matters 2021 shapes the curriculum for the youngest children. In parent terms, learning combines talking and listening, movement, relationships and managing feelings with early reading, writing, number work, discovering the world and creative expression. Topics connect activities, while practical exploration gives children opportunities to try ideas for themselves.

Language work introduces vocabulary connected to children’s learning. Physical activities develop movement and coordination, including the control needed to use tools and pencils. Social learning involves building relationships, respecting others and recognising feelings. These are useful foundations for joining in with a group and expressing what a child needs.

Books and writing materials sit alongside opportunities to count, investigate number patterns and explore shape and measurement. Children experiment with materials and express ideas through role play, dance, music and art. Indoor learning areas and outdoor resources provide different spaces for this exploration. The school sees contact with nature as an important part of development.

In October 2022, early years learning helped children develop conversation and social skills, with a specific emphasis on the youngest children. They practised listening, exchanging ideas and sharing play. The emphasis was on learning to participate as well as learning new knowledge.

Settling was a strength of early years provision in October 2022: children adjusted successfully because trained staff responded to their needs. Teachers also spotted children whose learning needed additional attention and gave them help. For parents, this connects everyday care with support for taking part in learning.

A nursery teacher and an Early Years Lead form part of the team structure. Parents can contact teachers by email, providing a direct way to raise concerns about their child. The school also has a deputy headteacher with responsibility for special educational needs and disabilities, offering a contact for discussions about additional needs.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route by the normal deadline. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as two separate decisions: being familiar with the school does not secure an offer.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 0121 464 8659 or email enquiry@forestdale.bham.sch.uk. Forestdale Primary School is on Wareham Road, Frankley, Birmingham, B45 0JS. Parents can also arrange an appointment through the office or enquiry email to discuss concerns about their child.