Oakley Cross Primary School and Nursery: Nursery Review

Traditional tales, junk modelling and learning to serve a snack give Oakley Cross’s nursery its character: stories and practical exploration sit alongside early independence. Children can join from age 2. Acorns and Saplings are the nursery groups within Oakley Cross Primary School and Nursery in West Auckland, so this is provision within a primary school.

Stories give the learning a recurring focus. A traditional tale becomes the nursery’s core text for each half-term, complemented by a weekly book and rhyme. Teaching themes grow from these texts, with play and curiosity shaping how children explore them. That gives families something concrete to share at home: a familiar story or rhyme can carry the conversation beyond the session.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) takes learning beyond books into making, movement and discovery. Within the classroom, construction, loose parts and role play sit alongside junk modelling and materials children can shape. Children practise joining, cutting and sticking, then reconsider what they have made. Cooking opportunities also introduce them to food through practical activity.

Creative and Malleable Areas support expression indoors and outside. Early science combines investigations led by adults with opportunities for children to investigate independently, connecting play with language about the world around them. Technology has a practical role too: cameras, remote control vehicles, tablets and computers support communication, number work and movement skills. These are tools children use as part of learning.

Language is a clear strength in the early years evidence. Ofsted’s inspection on 8 and 9 November 2023 found that children developed vocabulary and increasingly complex language, with the curriculum supporting early reading and communication. For a child building confidence in speaking, that emphasis matters across play as well as stories.

Settling and independence go together here. In November 2023, younger children settled readily, helped by caring adults who encouraged them to try things for themselves. Two-year-olds received guidance to help themselves at snack time. This makes an everyday care routine an opportunity to practise doing something independently.

Weekly Nursery News shares the book and rhyme with parents and carers, giving families a direct connection to classroom learning. Before children start, the school gathers details of allergies, health needs and dietary requirements; parents must update these when circumstances change. That information supports continuity between home and school.

Access has concrete features: the school occupies a single level, has wheelchair access and provides an accessible toilet. Occupational therapy and physiotherapy can assess further access resources where needed. Families can arrange an appointment to discuss SEND requirements, giving them a route to talk through their child’s needs before joining.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. The two applications follow separate routes: nursery applications go directly to Oakley Cross, while families must apply again for Reception through Durham County Council. The school directs new school admission requests to the council’s online application route. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions.

Morning sessions run from 8:45am to 11:45am; afternoon sessions run from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. These distinct blocks give families a clear basis for planning their day.

Free nursery places depend on meeting eligibility criteria. Additional paid sessions can be requested, subject to nursery space; contact the school for current charges. Nursery enquiries and applications go directly to the school, and families can arrange a visit to meet staff. The office can be reached on 01388 833 186 or at oakleycross@durhamlearning.net.