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Nursery at Oasis Academy Short Heath
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A bike track, mud kitchen and a different story each week give Little Explorers Nursery its character. This is Oasis Academy Short Heath’s nursery for children aged 3 to 4, within the primary academy on Streetly Road in Erdington, Birmingham. Books and practical exploration provide the detail that matters here.
Stories shape the learning. Each week brings a new book linked to the topic, with activities changed around the nursery to match. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum informs the play resources: children can explore maths, make marks, build and investigate their surroundings through dedicated activity areas. Nursery maths introduces number alongside shape, space and measure, with mathematical vocabulary woven into those early explorations.
Indoors, the construction corner and dramatic play area give children different ways to develop ideas. Materials for moulding sit alongside activities for fine motor skills, while a home corner and a quieter reading corner offer other choices. Staff share books with children from a library replenished through donations from parents and organisations. Reading has a physical place as well as a place in the weekly topic.
Outside, children have climbing equipment, a playhouse and a track for bikes. Water play, sand building and the mud kitchen add opportunities to experiment with materials. Aprons are provided. Nursery children also use the academy’s Forest School area in its grounds once a week for 4 to 6 weeks, in small groups accompanied by a Forest School lead and another staff member. Activities include natural-material crafts, games and learning about local wildlife.
In April 2024, Ofsted found that early-years children benefited from thoughtfully arranged indoor and outdoor spaces, with songs and rhymes supporting learning and confidence. It also found that children in Nursery and Reception remained absorbed in their activities. These findings concern the early years within the school.
The nursery teacher also holds the EYFS lead role, linking classroom provision with early-years leadership. Toilets and changing facilities are on site, so personal care can be managed within the setting.
Before children begin in September, the academy introduces them to their class and offers a tour. This gives families a chance to make the surroundings familiar before the start. For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the academy aims to take account of their views and meet individual needs; parents can discuss those needs with the SENCO.
School meals are cooked on site, with a vegetarian choice and provision for allergies and food tolerances. The academy prohibits nut and fish products, and birthday treats must not be brought into nursery. Families therefore need to consider the allergy restrictions when preparing anything to bring from home.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Birmingham City Council’s Common Application Form, by the normal deadline. Treat that application as a separate task from arranging nursery attendance: joining Little Explorers does not remove the need to apply again.
Funding covers eligible three- and four-year-olds for 15 hours each week over 38 weeks. A further 15 funded hours are offered for eligible working parents. Where funding is not received, charges apply; paid full-time provision includes a school dinner. Contact the academy for current charges.
Nursery uniform consists of a branded blue cardigan or sweatshirt, black jogging bottoms and a white T-shirt, required throughout the year. Uniform can be collected from the school office after payment through MCAS.
For nursery applications, telephone 0121 373 6056 or email info@oasisshortheath.org. Visits can also be arranged through the office, including by special request for families unable to attend the academy’s open days.
The nursery is for children aged 3 to 4.
The outdoor area includes climbing equipment, a bike track, a playhouse, sand and water play, and a mud kitchen. Nursery children also attend small-group Forest School sessions once a week for 4 to 6 weeks.
Eligible three- and four-year-olds can receive 15 hours a week over 38 weeks, with a further 15 hours for eligible working parents. Charges apply where funding is not received.
No. Families must apply separately for Reception through Birmingham City Council’s Common Application Form by the normal deadline.
Contact the school office on 0121 373 6056 or email info@oasisshortheath.org. The office can also arrange a visit.
