Oasis Academy Foundry Nursery Review

Play shaped by children’s interests gives Foundry’s nursery its character. Books have a central place, and activities centre on play and children’s interests. The nursery belongs to Oasis Academy Foundry on Foundry Road in Winson Green, Birmingham, and caters for children aged 2 to 4.

Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Good following visits on 20 and 21 June 2023 and 18 July 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Children’s interests shape the activities. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guides learning: in parent terms, play gives children opportunities to develop communication, independence, movement and an understanding of their surroundings. Sorting and matching introduce mathematical ideas, while dance, imaginative play and art give children ways to express themselves. Learning to cooperate is part of the work too, as children become used to a group beyond their family.

Books connect nursery learning with home. Children are encouraged to practise early reading skills in both places, giving families a practical part in their child’s learning. In June and July 2023, children began learning particular sounds in Nursery, and staff introduced new vocabulary throughout early years activities.

Conversation needs attention. In June and July 2023, opportunities to use new language did not consistently lead to extended conversation, and many children gave limited spoken detail about their learning. For parents, the useful distinction is between hearing new words and having enough time to use them.

Classroom exploration extends outdoors. On the first day, children have time to explore the outdoor learning areas when weather allows, alongside getting familiar with the classroom and making friends. That gives the start a focus on people and places as well as learning.

A group and key worker give each child a familiar connection. The key worker works with parents around the child’s interests and needs, helps them settle and supports their learning. Induction is adjusted to the individual child, so settling follows their needs rather than one fixed pattern.

Parents worried after leaving their child can telephone the office after 9.30am for an update. The first-day arrangements also include snacks and lunch. These everyday routines sit alongside exploration and getting to know classmates.

For children with additional needs, the Early Years Leader meets incoming nursery children, and the SENDCo can discuss concerns with parents. Shorter starting hours may be arranged in some circumstances. Physical access includes an accessible toilet within the nursery setting. Across the academy, children can also use a sensory room, providing a separate space for emotional regulation.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through the normal local authority process by the deadline for their intake. Birmingham residents apply through Birmingham City Council; families living elsewhere apply through their home local authority.

For the September 2026 intake, nursery attendance conferred no priority: the admission categories covered looked-after and previously looked-after children, siblings and distance, after children with an Education, Health and Care Plan naming the school. That cycle’s deadline was 15 January 2026.

Transition support is a separate matter. Children with SEND can meet their next teacher and supporting adults and become familiar with their next classroom and key spaces. This helps prepare for change; it does not secure admission.

Part-time nursery sessions run Monday to Friday, 8.45am to 11.45am. Full-time places depend on Birmingham City Council criteria. For a family planning around work or other children, the morning session is the concrete starting point.

Contact the school directly for nursery applications and place availability. Visits can be arranged through the office by special request. Nursery uniform includes a white polo shirt, grey trousers or a skirt, a school sweatshirt with its logo and sensible black shoes; clothing should carry the child’s name. On the first day, use the main school gate, with the nursery door and ramp to the right.