Charborough Road Primary School Nursery Review

Play chosen by children, teacher-led sessions and regular Forest School give Charborough Road’s nursery its shape. This purpose-built provision caters for three- and four-year-olds on the primary school site in Filton. Indoor and outdoor learning spaces allow children’s interests to shape activities beyond a single classroom setting. The emphasis is on learning through play, with adults guiding some activities and children initiating others.

Two teacher-led sessions form the main learning blocks: 8.30am to 11.30am and 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Lunch sits between them. Within the curriculum, adult guidance sits alongside children’s own choices, so teaching and independent exploration both have a place.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach follows Birth to Five Matters. In parent language, the nursery aims to plan around each child’s development, build relationships and provide surroundings that help learning happen. Independence, confidence and consideration for other people are explicit aims. Children’s needs and interests influence the resources and experiences adults select.

Natural fabrics and materials feature in the learning areas. These give children things to investigate while supporting the nursery’s aim of encouraging curiosity. Forest School adds regular outdoor exploration, supported by trained practitioners; play and supported risk taking are part of that approach.

Stories bring a more specific picture of learning. At the May 2023 inspection, nursery children enjoyed expressive reading from staff and became familiar enough with stories to tell them again themselves. That gives listening and storytelling a practical role in the day, rather than treating books simply as preparation for later reading.

A nursery teaching assistant forms part of the staffing structure, alongside the teacher-led sessions. The nursery aims to adapt learning to individual needs and to include children across differences in language, culture, gender and belief. Working with parents and carers is part of that approach, giving families a role in helping staff understand their child.

Lunchtime supervision is free, with a choice between bringing a packed lunch and booking a school dinner. Meals carry a separate charge. This distinction matters when planning a day that spans both learning sessions: supervision and food are separate arrangements.

For children using nappies, families supply them from home. Wipes are provided, reducing what parents need to pack for that care routine.

Attending this nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route by the applicable deadline. Treat choosing nursery care and applying for a school place as two decisions: familiarity with the school does not secure admission.

Sessions are booked online, with funded and paid options during term time. A breakfast session runs from 8am to 8.30am, before the morning teaching block. The lunch session runs from 11.30am to 12.30pm, connecting the two teacher-led sessions for families booking across the middle of the day.

The funded entitlement described for three- and four-year-olds is 570 hours annually, usually arranged as 15 hours each week over 38 weeks. Some parents qualify for 30 funded hours a week, subject to work, income, the child’s circumstances and immigration status. Additional teacher-led sessions can also be paid for. Ask the school for current charges.

For nursery enquiries or to arrange a visit, contact the school office on 01454 867220. Nursery applications can be made throughout the year, and completed forms go directly to enquiries@charboroughroadprimary.org.uk or to the school office.