Hawkesley Church Primary Academy Nursery

Stories, poems and conversation give Hawkesley's nursery its character. Language is a central part of the day: adults introduce vocabulary and encourage children to talk about their activities. The emphasis gives children opportunities to practise expressing themselves as they play and learn.

In January 2026, Ofsted judged the school's early years provision to be Strong standard. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating. Early years children became comfortable quickly, helped by dependable routines and relationships with adults.

Purposeful play sits alongside activities guided by adults. Children can choose and reach learning materials themselves in an organised, well-equipped environment. This gives them a practical role in deciding what to use, rather than relying on an adult to hand out every resource. Their engagement extends across both independent play and directed learning.

Within Nursery, themes and carefully selected books support communication and language. Stories and poetry give the children something to listen to, discuss and enjoy. Adults demonstrate vocabulary in use, so learning new words is connected to conversation rather than treated as an isolated exercise.

Talk continues as children change activities, making these moments part of learning too. Children pay attention and speak confidently about what they are doing. For parents, the distinctive feature is the repeated opportunity to use language across the day, with adults helping children put their experiences into words.

Settling begins with relationships and routines. Adults establish familiar patterns early and develop connections that help children feel secure. The January 2026 early years findings linked this approach with children settling promptly. Predictability gives them a basis for taking part in play and learning.

Support also responds to what children understand. Staff assess this carefully, use it to decide what should come next and offer help promptly, including for children with additional needs. Early years adults combine ambitious expectations for children with support introduced quickly when needed.

Confidence has a qualification: some children are more hesitant to speak to adults they do not know. They nevertheless remain comfortable and attentive. This distinction matters for families whose child talks readily with familiar people but needs time with someone new.

Parent contact includes everyday conversations and workshops. These provide opportunities to discuss children's experiences and learning. In January 2026, partnerships with parents were a strength of early years provision, and children were well equipped for the next step in their education.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet the normal deadline. Readiness for the next stage and entitlement to a place are separate matters: the early years judgement about children's preparation does not secure admission.

The nursery is part of Hawkesley Church Primary Academy at 376 Shannon Road, Kings Norton, Birmingham, B38 9TR. Contact the school on 01214596467 for nursery enquiries.