St Martin's School Nursery Review

Bikes, dough and an ice cream shop give the early years at St Martin's School a practical character. Preschool children can start at three, with mornings, afternoons and full days combined to suit the family's requested pattern. That flexibility makes this Bournemouth independent school's nursery an option for families seeking sessions rather than a single full-day arrangement.

At the June 2025 ISI inspection, four nursery children shared one early-years class with Reception children. At that inspection, nursery provision was part of a mixed early-years classroom rather than a separate preschool class. The numbers describe that inspection's cohort, rather than the number of places offered.

Play carries the learning. The June 2025 inspection found that practical teaching in the early years supported children's language, mathematical understanding and creativity. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) takes shape here through conversation, making things and exploring the world, giving young children concrete experiences to build their understanding.

An outdoor learning area provides space for children to talk together while they play. Teachers also set up creative activities that encourage conversation, helping children extend their vocabulary and form sentences. Language practice is woven into activity rather than confined to a separate task.

Physical development has equally tangible examples. Riding trikes and bikes exercises larger movements, while handling dough works the smaller movements needed for control of hands and fingers. The ice cream shop role-play area adds pretend money to imaginative play, introducing an everyday use for numbers.

Friendship receives deliberate attention too. Weekly circle time explores being a friend and dealing with disagreements. During collaborative activities, teachers demonstrate sharing, taking turns and recognising another child's success. These are practical lessons in playing together.

Food comes from home: the school asks families to provide a packed lunch, a water bottle and fruit for a snack. Parents therefore organise what their child eats during the day.

For children needing additional help, the school works with families on support that can include learning assistance or pastoral interventions. Its staffing structure includes a SENDCo. A designated safeguarding lead and deputy provide points of contact for child-protection concerns, while the inspection's early-years evidence confirms access to paediatric first aid.

School Spider carries messages and newsletters, and lets parents record absences and book clubs. Teachers are available for informal conversations after the school day finishes; appointments for longer discussions go through the office. This gives families both a digital channel and a direct conversation route.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. The school's published general application route is to contact admissions, arrange a tour and complete a registration form. Nursery families should confirm with admissions what process applies for Reception. Entry to year groups depends on spaces being available, with waiting lists used when needed.

Nursery and Reception children shared one early-years class at the June 2025 inspection, but that arrangement should be kept separate from the admissions decision.

Mornings, afternoons and full days can be combined as requested. The school accepts 15-hour funding and 30-hour funding for eligible children, with an Early Years Funding form required. The form can be obtained through the office or online. Contact the school for current charges.

Tours can be arranged throughout the year through admissions on 01202 292011. Families should also read the withdrawal terms: after registration, a full term's written notice is required, and failing to give it makes the following term's fees payable.

The school's uniform supplier is PMG Schoolwear in Poole, and the PTA holds second-hand uniform. These provide two routes for organising school clothing.