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Nursery at Leigh Beck Infant School and Nursery Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Play does the teaching here: exploring materials, asking questions and learning to work alongside other children shape Leigh Beck’s nursery curriculum. The emphasis is on combining activities children choose with those adults guide, giving independence and shared learning a place in the day.
The nursery belongs to Leigh Beck Infant School and Nursery Academy on Point Road, Canvey Island. The wider school occupies a retained 1930s building, with a garden and a waiting area for parents in its grounds. These are features of the school site, rather than a description of the nursery’s play space.
The Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum connects learning through play with communication, relationships, movement and early skills in reading, writing and maths. Children can play independently or alongside others, with opportunities to explore and develop hand control. For parents, the useful distinction is that play has a learning purpose: choosing an activity and joining an adult-led task both contribute.
Stories, poetry and rhymes are intended to make books enjoyable from the start. The nursery also plans opportunities to practise the hand movements needed for early writing through different materials. Mathematical language comes into play activities through songs and rhymes, while children are encouraged to compare possibilities and explain their thinking. These aims connect early literacy and number work with experiences young children can join in.
Exploration takes several forms. Children have opportunities for cooking, gardening and investigating, as well as experimenting with water and sand. Using their senses, making observations and asking questions gives them ways to test ideas about their surroundings. Creative activities include making things with different materials and experimenting with sounds.
Movement has a place too. The nursery aims to help children develop body control and awareness of the space around them, including moving to music. Alongside these physical skills, its personal and social aims include growing independence and recognising both differences and similarities between people. The intended day therefore combines practical exploration with learning how to participate alongside others.
Individual needs sit within the school’s support arrangements. Teachers raise concerns with parents; continuing difficulties can lead to a tailored plan involving the special educational needs coordinator and school leadership. That gives families a role in discussing support rather than simply receiving a decision.
Where difficulties persist, the school may involve specialists, including a speech therapist, educational psychologist or health visitor. A One Plan Meeting brings parents and staff together to review progress and agree support across home and school. The Essex Local Offer also provides SEND information and support for families.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Parents must make a separate school application through the normal admissions process and meet the applicable deadline. The route is Essex admissions, with online applications or a paper form.
Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as two separate decisions. A nursery enquiry is not a substitute for applying for a primary school place.
Nursery enquiries can go directly to 01268 693608. The school office is reachable on 01268 682322 or at admin@leighbeck-inf.essex.sch.uk. The General Enquiry Form includes Nursery as a year-group choice, so families can direct their message to the relevant provision.
School visits are arranged by appointment through the office. The address is Point Road, Canvey Island, Essex SS8 7TD.
The curriculum combines child-chosen play with adult-guided activities. Opportunities include gardening, cooking, water and sand exploration, stories and creative work.
No. Parents must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process.
Parents can apply through Essex admissions online or use a paper application form.
The school’s arrangements include discussing concerns with parents, developing a tailored support plan and, where difficulties persist, seeking specialist advice. One Plan Meetings review progress and support at home and school.
Call 01268 693608, or contact the school office on 01268 682322. You can also email admin@leighbeck-inf.essex.sch.uk or use the General Enquiry Form and select Nursery.
