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Nursery at Stoneyholme Nursery School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Forest School, clay models and children buttering their own toast give Stoneyholme its character: learning involves doing things for yourself. This maintained nursery school on March Street in Burnley specialises in early education for children aged two, three and four. It is a nursery school in its own right, with sessions led by a qualified Lead Teacher alongside early years staff.
The July 2023 inspection found exceptional early years education, with children developing knowledge and skills confidently throughout the curriculum. Its examples were reassuringly concrete: counting candles for pretend cakes, making clay octopuses and experimenting with lemon and mint. These are small activities with several purposes, combining conversation, number and practical skills.
Sessions alternate time for children to choose their play with activities guided by their Key Person, stories, rhymes and group reflection. The morning story group begins at 10.15am; reflection follows at 11.30am. Children have room to pursue an idea, then come together to talk about their learning.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings language, movement, relationships, early literacy, maths, creativity and understanding the world into everyday play. Stoneyholme adds a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach, encouraging children to communicate through building, drawing, movement and other materials as well as speech. Its curriculum connects My world, The world around me and The world beyond, starting with familiar experiences and broadening children's interests.
Letters and Sounds supports early phonics, beginning with Phase One listening and speaking activities. Mark-making can involve sand trays, chalk or paint, giving children several ways to explore writing before relying on a pencil.
Outside, the Forest School has an outdoor classroom and regular sessions led by a qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader. Children explore nature and practise taking manageable risks. Links with Pennine Lancashire Community Farm extend this practical learning: children work with gardeners and relatives at allotments, growing produce before cooking and tasting it.
A dedicated Key Person is allocated from registration, supporting transitions and planning around each child's needs. Informal conversations at either end of a session give parents regular opportunities to discuss progress; more formal meetings usually happen two or three times during the school year. The All About Me! booklet helps staff establish a child's starting points, bringing family knowledge into the beginning of nursery life.
The Super Sensory Centre offers a quieter space, with a bubble tube, sensory lighting, projectors and soft seating. It gives children somewhere to pause and relax alongside the busier play spaces.
In July 2023, children practised independence at morning snack by choosing breakfast, collecting crockery, spreading toast and pouring drinks. Staff also supported children learning English through words from their home languages. Additional needs were recognised promptly, with parents and other professionals involved in support. Safeguarding was effective: staff training and cooperation with outside agencies helped address welfare concerns.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline.
Preparation for that change includes everyday independence, listening and communication. At the July 2023 inspection, children practised independence through outdoor dressing and snack routines. These offered practice in skills useful for primary school. The Key Person's role in supporting transitions sits alongside this preparation; it should not be confused with securing admission.
Morning sessions run from 8.45am to 11.45am, and afternoons from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. For 15-hour funded places, the usual pattern is five mornings or five afternoons. Children eligible for 30-hour funding are usually offered a combination of sessions; some eligible three- and four-year-olds can attend from 8.45am to 2.45pm. Full days are also offered.
Paid places can begin from a child's second birthday, with a minimum booking of two morning or afternoon sessions. Children with 15-hour funding can also attend additional paid sessions. Contact the School Office on 01282 454473 to enquire about a place and current charges.
Outdoor clothing matters here. Leave wellingtons at nursery, choose suitable shoes and label clothing. All-in-one waterproofs are supplied for very wet weather. Gates open five minutes before each session starts and ends, so collection and drop-off fit around the session times.
The nursery offers places for children aged two, three and four, with funded and paid options depending on eligibility.
Mornings run from 8.45am to 11.45am. Afternoon sessions run from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.
Yes. A dedicated Key Person is assigned from registration to support transitions, plan learning and discuss progress with parents.
No. Reception requires a separate application through the normal admissions process.
Choose weather-appropriate clothing and suitable shoes, leave wellingtons at nursery and label clothing. The nursery supplies all-in-one waterproofs for very wet days.
