Lever Edge Primary Academy Nursery Review

Books, conversation and learning to share give Lever Edge’s nursery provision its clearest character. There are separate provisions for two-year-olds and three-year-olds within Lever Edge Primary Academy on Lever Edge Lane in Bolton, placing these first steps in learning within a primary school setting.

Ofsted graded the school’s early years provision Outstanding at the inspection on 7 and 8 March 2023. That judgement covers early years across the school, rather than giving the nursery a separate rating. For parents, the useful detail is the emphasis on language, books and cooperation.

Language runs through the learning. In March 2023, books played a central role in early years activities, and staff were skilled at helping children develop their language. Activities gave children purposeful reasons to communicate. This makes talking and listening part of learning itself, rather than something reserved for a separate lesson.

The early years foundation stage (EYFS) here brings learning and social development together: children develop language while also practising sharing and working with others. In March 2023, early years children behaved exceptionally well, with adults helping them put those social skills into practice. Learning to cooperate matters for the child joining a group as much as learning new words.

Continuity starts with the youngest provision. In March 2023, the curriculum built on children’s learning as two-year-olds when they moved into Nursery. That gives the nursery curriculum a starting point in what children have already learned.

Raise learning concerns promptly with your child’s teacher or the special educational needs coordinator (SENDCo). Parents help decide what additional support to put in place, alongside both roles, and receive updates and guidance about their child’s education.

Specialist staff may provide further help. In a small number of cases, the school may seek support from an external agency, with parents’ permission. Families therefore remain involved if support extends beyond the classroom team.

Within the wider school, the Thrive Hive provides an uncluttered space with visual structure and consistent routines for pupils needing help with communication and engagement. A Sensory Room supports identified sensory and regulation needs through individually planned activities and sensory breaks. These are school support arrangements, with use planned around individual needs.

Separate admissions. Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place at Lever Edge Primary Academy. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions process and meet the relevant deadline. Choosing the nursery and applying for school are separate decisions.

The school office is the enquiry route: telephone 01204 333679 or email office@lever-edge.bolton.sch.uk. The nursery’s support arrangements also direct parents to speak to staff about worries concerning their child, giving families a route for educational concerns alongside general enquiries.