St Peter's Primary School Nursery Review

Messy play, a secret garden and cooking give St Peter's preschool its own character within the Bromyard primary school. This is an on-site nursery with outdoor exploration woven into its day. Children have a large indoor space and a playground with a shelter, giving them places to play both inside and outside.

The nursery aims to develop children's enjoyment of learning and their interest in the world around them. Its practical arrangements match that emphasis: old clothes are encouraged, and outdoor clothing is part of the everyday kit.

Outdoor learning brings together the preschool playground, Forest School and the secret garden. These are distinct places to explore, rather than a single play area. Waterproof suits are provided, while families supply named wellies and a coat. In summer, children need a sun hat, with sunscreen applied at home before the day begins.

Indoors, the large learning area provides another space for exploration. The nursery aims to personalise learning as children's independence and confidence develop. Across the Early Years Foundation Stage, its stated emphasis is on discovery, creativity and exploration: learning through experiences that invite children to investigate their surroundings.

Food also becomes an activity. Preschool Cooking Club sometimes supplies the afternoon snack, connecting something children make with something they eat. Show and Tell gives them another way to participate: parents can send photographs through Seesaw so children can share family news and special occasions with their group.

Settling begins with familiar adults alongside the child. Parents may come inside when their child starts preschool, help them locate their drawer and peg, and support them as they settle. Self-registration uses a child's photograph on a magnetic board, making the task something children can take part in themselves.

Seesaw carries photographs, observations and progress updates each week. Parents can also use it to contact staff. General school communications use My Child at School (MCAS), so learning updates and wider notices reach families through different channels.

Lunch takes place at 11.30am for children attending the morning session or staying all day, with a packed lunch brought from home. Children need their own water bottle. Morning refreshments include milk and fruit; afternoons bring fruit or something from Cooking Club. Parents are asked to tell staff about allergies.

For children with SEND, the trust's early years approach includes listening to parental concerns, monitoring development and reviewing support through an assess, plan, do, review cycle. That gives families a role in discussing needs and checking how support is working.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through their local authority using the Common Application Form. The application period begins in September before the intended school start and closes in January.

For 2027-2028 entry, nursery attendance confers no oversubscription priority. Choosing the preschool therefore needs to stand on the child's nursery experience, with the later school application treated as a separate decision.

Morning sessions run from 8.50am to noon; afternoon sessions run from noon to 3pm. Nursery provision accommodates government-funded hours of 15 or 30. Contact the school for current charges.

Preschool clothing is practical: old clothes for messy activities, with optional preschool jackets available to buy. Lunch boxes and bottles go on the outside trolley. At collection, staff bring children to meet their adults on the preschool playground.

To enquire or arrange a visit, email office@st-peters.hereford.sch.uk or call 01885 483237. Applications for preschool go to the school office, either by email or delivered in person.