Swaffham Prior Church of England Primary School Nursery

Independent play and conversation with adults shape the early learning at Swaffham Prior. Children use what they have been taught in their own activities, while staff listen to their interests and work out the next step. This gives families a useful picture of the provision's character: learning involves both adult guidance and children's own exploration.

The nursery belongs to Swaffham Prior Church of England Primary School on Station Road. Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Good following its inspection on 29 and 30 November 2022. That judgement covers early years within the school.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach brings together practical experiences, language development and independent play. Children put newly learned skills to use through activities they explore for themselves. Adults introduce vocabulary and help children use it, making conversation part of learning rather than simply giving instructions.

Planning follows a two-year cycle, with learning revisited so children can return to ideas and build their understanding. Staff use children's interests and their stage of development to guide what comes next. For parents, the significant detail is that adult interaction helps shape learning alongside the planned programme.

In November 2022, early years children developed their understanding of numbers and patterns quickly. Staff also taught phonics effectively within early years. The learning environment encouraged exploration and manageable risk-taking, helping children develop resilience and confidence. These findings describe early years as a whole, rather than a separate nursery assessment.

Relationships with adults are part of the EYFS approach. Staff listen to children, consider their interests and identify their next learning steps. This gives adult attention a practical purpose: understanding the child helps staff decide how to guide their learning.

For children with disabilities, the schools make reasonable adjustments to learning materials and the physical environment. Targeted teaching can include classroom assistance where appropriate. School support also involves visiting professionals, including a Speech Therapist, an Education Psychologist and a Child and Family Nurse. Families are expected to share information about their child's disability so that support can be planned together.

The school follows the DEMAT safeguarding and child protection policy. A Wellbeing and Inclusion Coordinator serves both Swaffham Prior and Swaffham Bulbeck, providing a shared contact for families across the partnership.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet the applicable deadline. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions, even though the nursery is part of the school.

The school is on Station Road, Swaffham Prior, Cambridge, CB25 0LG. Contact the office on 01638 741529 or email office@swaffhamprior.cambs.sch.uk for an enquiry. School visits can be arranged by calling or emailing the office to make an appointment, giving families an opportunity to look around before deciding.