Rookery School Nursery Review

Play with a purpose shapes Rookery's nursery: children's interests start the learning, and adults help take it further. This is Rookery School's own nursery in Handsworth, Birmingham, with an emphasis on children becoming more independent and confident. The nursery aims to work with families around each child's needs, making the relationship with parents part of its approach to care and learning.

The early years provision was graded Outstanding at the Ofsted inspection on 21 to 22 June 2023. That judgement covers the school's early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery.

Children have a say in what they explore. In the Early Years classrooms, play starts from their interests and gives them opportunities to investigate, ask questions and exchange ideas. They can work alongside other children or explore independently, returning to familiar skills and trying them again at their own pace. For parents, this means learning involves both social interaction and room for individual interests.

Adults participate actively rather than simply supervising. They watch children's play, demonstrate possibilities and help develop an activity further. Rookery aims to balance activities directed by adults with play initiated by children, so the day combines children's choices with teaching that extends their thinking.

Visits give topics a concrete starting point. Each nursery topic opens with an outing; destinations include a farm, the theatre and places nearby. These experiences give children something beyond the classroom to investigate and discuss.

The early years foundation stage, or EYFS, brings different areas of early learning together. In June 2023, creative learning sat alongside a clear emphasis on language, literacy and mathematics. Children made substantial progress across early years, including children with SEND and those experiencing disadvantage.

Before starting nursery, children are encouraged to join Stay and Play sessions. This gives them an opportunity to become familiar with the setting before their usual attendance begins. Where relevant, preparation can also involve a home visit or contact with the child's existing school; transition sessions can be adjusted to individual needs.

For concerns about special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the first conversation is with the class teacher. The school's SENco and Pastoral Manager are further points of contact. Across the school, support includes teaching adapted to children's needs, interventions in small groups and individual work towards specific targets. These are different ways of responding to a child's learning needs, rather than expecting every child to need the same support.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately through the normal Reception admissions process and meet the applicable deadline. Keep that application separate from the decision to attend nursery.

For children with SEND, moving between classes includes a discussion between the existing and new teachers about learning and helpful strategies. That transfer of knowledge supports continuity of care; it does not establish an admissions advantage.

Rookery School is on Rookery Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9PY. Nursery enquiries can be made through the school's contact form or by calling 0121 464 4221. This provides a direct route for starting a conversation with the school.