Meadow Wood School Nursery

Individual learning needs shape the offer at Meadow Wood, where nursery provision sits within a school serving children with physical and neurological impairments. The school admits children from age three and is based on Coldharbour Lane in Bushey. Its stated aim is a curriculum adapted to each child, with parents, carers and professionals working together to support learning and development.

Personalisation is the starting point for understanding the learning approach. Meadow Wood aims to match its curriculum to individual needs, rather than expecting children to approach learning in the same way. Its teaching principles include adapting activities, giving children choices and helping them become more independent. For families, the emphasis is on participation suited to the child.

Communication also has a practical place in the school's classroom guidance. Adults are asked to allow children time to express themselves, listen carefully and explain expectations in ways children can understand. That gives a clear picture of the intended adult approach: time to respond, opportunities to make choices and support to understand what comes next.

Hertfordshire Steps is the school's named behaviour approach. It emphasises inclusion, communication and calming situations, alongside reflection and repairing relationships. The school’s golden rules translate expectations into familiar actions, including kindness, helping others, sharing and caring for the world around them.

Partnership with families and multiagency teams forms part of Meadow Wood's approach to supporting development. The school aims to bring learning and wider developmental needs together, making collaboration with parents and carers part of that work.

Across the school, staff have completed Level 1 Step On training in Hertfordshire Steps. Classroom teachers direct support staff in managing behaviour. Guidance asks adults to keep their voices calm, use respectful language and handle information sensitively. These are concrete expectations for how adults should support children, rather than simply expecting children to manage their emotions alone.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families should discuss the next-stage placement process with the school and Hertfordshire County Admissions.

Meadow Wood placements are agreed with Hertfordshire County Council using a SEN statement or an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan). This specialist placement route matters when considering the next stage. Families can discuss admissions with the school or Hertfordshire County Admissions, keeping the placement decision separate from their child's experience of nursery.

Prospective pupils and their families are welcome to visit. Visits can be arranged through the School Secretary, and the school office also handles appointments. This gives families a direct way to meet the setting before making a decision.

The school is at Coldharbour Lane, Bushey, WD23 4NN. Contact the office on 020 8420 4720 or email admin@meadowwood.herts.sch.uk. Children can be admitted during the school year, so the enquiry route is useful for families considering a placement beyond the start of an academic year.