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Nursery at Somerville Primary School
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Water play, modelling and songs give Somerville’s nursery its character: children learn through activity, with conversation helping them put their discoveries into words. The provision serves children aged three to four in Small Heath, Birmingham. There are 104 nursery places, divided equally between morning and afternoon groups of 52.
The nursery occupies the school’s extension alongside the other early years classes and younger primary pupils. This is a school setting from the outset, with nursery sessions forming a distinct part of the day. Ofsted’s report dated 6 May 2026 assessed early years at Expected standard; that judgement covers the school’s early years provision rather than a separately inspected nursery.
Play and exploration shape the curriculum. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together communication, physical development and learning to manage feelings, alongside early mathematics, literacy, creative work and discovering the world. Children’s interests and development help shape the opportunities they receive, so learning starts from what they can already do.
Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised provides daily foundational phonics in nursery. Stories also feature every day, supported by the school’s reading spine. Music adds another way to explore language and sound: the nursery curriculum includes rhymes, singing, instrumental play and listening to music. These activities give children ways to participate before they can read independently.
In May 2026, children took an enthusiastic part in activities including modelling and water play. Songs and rhymes supported language development, while adult conversations helped children practise vocabulary and sentence patterns. Adult interaction. Some children, including those less involved in activities, missed chances for these conversations. Increasing those opportunities was an early years improvement priority, making adult engagement an important consideration for families.
For outdoor activity, the school has an equipped playground serving its younger children. Indoors, quiet spaces provide an alternative when children need a calmer setting.
For children with special educational needs and disabilities, help took practical forms: a quieter space and support in smaller groups. Ofsted’s report dated 6 May 2026 found that difficulties affecting learning or wellbeing were spotted early and that these adjustments helped children progress.
Children were also learning how to handle their own feelings and understand other people’s. Settling was quick, supported by the bonds staff built with children and their families.
The school’s teachers are qualified, and teaching assistants hold at least NVQ level 3. Parents can discuss progress at early years parents’ evenings, attend curriculum workshops and see children’s work at showcases. Translation support is available from bilingual staff, helping families take part in these discussions.
Toileting. Children are expected to use the toilet before starting nursery, with an exception for medical or additional needs. Nursery staff can support toilet training, and families should send spare trousers and pants for accidents.
Food support includes the school’s free breakfast club for all pupils, starting at 8:00am. Toast, bagels, cereal and beans are served. Registration involves obtaining a letter from the child’s teacher and returning the completed consent form.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal Birmingham City Council admissions process and meet its deadline. Treat that application as a distinct task from joining nursery.
Preparation for a new class is a separate matter. The school holds a summer transition morning so children can meet their next teacher and explore the classroom. Some children with special educational needs receive a transition book; additional visits may also help reduce anxiety about the change.
Morning nursery runs from 8:25am to 11:30am, Monday to Friday. Afternoon nursery runs from 12:30pm to 3:30pm on the same days. These give families two distinct session patterns around which to organise collection and other care.
For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 0121 675 0956 or email enquiry@somerville.bham.sch.uk. Accessible toilets are on the ground floor near the nursery entrance. Families with access requirements can contact the office to arrange support.
The nursery serves children aged three to four, with 52 morning places and 52 afternoon places.
Sessions run Monday to Friday: mornings from 8:25am to 11:30am and afternoons from 12:30pm to 3:30pm.
Play and exploration include modelling, water play, songs and rhymes. Children also have daily stories and foundational phonics through Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised.
No. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal Birmingham City Council admissions process and meet its deadline.
Children are expected to use the toilet before starting, except where there is a medical or additional need. Nursery staff can support toilet training; send spare pants and trousers for accidents.
