Blackpool Gateway Academy Nursery

Daily outdoor play shapes this 26-place nursery: children have direct access to a secure EYFS outdoor area, with time outside in different weather unless conditions pose a risk. The provision belongs to Blackpool Gateway Academy on Seymour Road, Blackpool, and takes children aged three to four.

An EYFS teacher works directly with the children alongside nursery staff qualified to at least Level 3 and experienced in early years. Ofsted’s assessment published on 2 June 2026 placed early years at Expected standard within the school inspection. This judgement covers the school’s early years provision.

Play combines activities guided by adults with choices driven by children’s interests. That gives children both direction and opportunities to decide what to explore. Outdoor learning forms part of the daily provision, rather than an occasional addition to the indoor session. Direct access from the nursery makes the outdoor area part of its learning environment.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together movement, language and emotional development with early reading, mathematics, creative expression and exploring the world. For parents, the emphasis is on learning to listen, speak, persevere and cooperate as well as acquiring knowledge. Staff assess children’s starting points during their first weeks, including when they join after September.

In June 2026, teaching across early years was consistent, and adult conversations helped children develop language they then used while playing. Early reading included phonics, while work on forming letters was taking effect. These are foundations for expressing ideas and beginning to read and write. Children also maintained their attention during activities and showed enthusiasm for learning.

Clear routines help children understand what comes next. In June 2026, children adapted quickly to those routines, and adults tailored help for nursery children facing additional developmental or learning challenges. Care and learning support work together here.

For children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the school has a SENDCo and SEND Manager. Support follows an Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle, with targeted plans discussed with families at least once a term. Parents can raise concerns with the class teacher, providing a starting point for discussion and further support. The school building has an accessible main entrance, a lift and accessible toilets on both floors.

Lunch is for children attending a full day: families can provide a packed lunch or choose a charged school meal. Communication includes Class Dojo, MCAS (My Child at School), text messages and progress reports, giving families several ways to receive updates.

Nursery attendance neither guarantees a Reception place nor gives admission priority. Families must make a separate application through their home local authority. For September 2027 entry, the deadline is 15 January 2027; Blackpool residents can apply at www.blackpool.gov.uk/schooladmissions.

Support with changing classes is a separate matter. The SEND team coordinates discussions and transfers information when children move classes. Depending on a child’s needs, transition support may include a book introducing the new class and teachers or a social story. These arrangements help prepare children for change; they do not alter admission decisions.

Morning sessions run from 8:45am to 11:45am, afternoons from 12:15pm to 3:15pm, and full days from 8:45am to 3:15pm. Bookings must cover at least three hours, and the nursery recommends two separate sessions each week.

Term-time extensions are available through Breakfast Club, from 7:45am to 8:45am, and the after-school club, from 3:15pm to 5:30pm. Places are limited, require advance booking and carry an additional charge.

The nursery offers a 15-hour entitlement, with additional hours charged. Families approved for 30 funded hours must take their eligibility code to the office for attendance in the following term. Contact the school for current charges. To request a nursery application pack or arrange a look round, call 01253 402936.

Toilet training. Children must be fully toilet trained before starting nursery. This requirement matters when deciding when your child is ready to join.