Newlaithes Infant School Nursery Review

An outdoor area of its own and space for up to 26 children give Newlaithes nursery a distinct place within the infant school. This is provision for children aged three to four on Langrigg Road in Carlisle, with half days, full days or a combination during term time. Families can choose a shorter session or a longer nursery day.

In the Ofsted inspection of December 2022, early years provision received a Good judgement within the school inspection. That judgement covers early years; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Stories, conversation and practical exploration give the learning its shape. Children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), with learning that includes language, early number skills and physical development. The writing approach begins in nursery and includes the principles of Power of Reading (CLPE). Stories and songs provide vocabulary for children to try out in their own speech.

In December 2022, adults supported imaginative play by joining children and introducing new vocabulary. Counting was incorporated into ordinary routines, helping children understand numbers and compare quantities. Pencil grip also received attention. These are useful foundations: learning happens through everyday activity as well as more focused teaching.

Nursery children have access to BeeBots, iPads and an interactive whiteboard, alongside use of the computer suite. Outdoors, their own area gives the nursery a separate space for play and learning. Balance bikes feature in nursery provision, adding a practical opportunity to develop movement skills.

The EYFS science curriculum includes observing seasonal changes outside and growing flowers and vegetables. Children can harvest what they grow and eat it as a snack, connecting discovery with food. For families continuing stories at home, the nursery teachers’ reading page includes Supertato and The Three Billy Goats Gruff.

Settling was a strength in December 2022: children in early years became comfortable quickly, while staff used their interests to build confidence and independence. That makes the child’s own enthusiasms a starting point for learning.

Parents have nursery topic overviews, a Parent Handbook and links to The Potty Training Guide and Toothbrushing for Children. These give families material to use alongside classroom learning and developing independence. The school’s SEND coordinator can be contacted through the office, providing a route for discussing additional needs.

DOLCE prepares the school’s meals freshly on the premises each day. This describes the school catering provision rather than a nursery meal entitlement.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee admission to Newlaithes Reception. Families must make a separate school application through Cumberland Council, which decides admissions. The stated deadline of 15 January 2026 belonged to entry in September 2026; it is a past application cycle.

Preparation for the next stage also involves families. A June 2026 new starters meeting introduced Reception life, with invitation packs sent beforehand. That introduction is separate from the allocation of places.

Nursery hours are 8:45am to 3:30pm in term time. Half and full days can be combined, making the session pattern a useful consideration when arranging the family week.

Contact the office on 01228 525756 or secretary@newinf.cumbria.sch.uk for enquiries. School tours can be booked by telephone. Nursery application forms go directly back to the school, with evidence of the child’s birth date and home address.

The uniform policy asks all children to wear uniform: a red or white polo shirt, grey formal bottoms and a red jumper, cardigan or sweatshirt. Logos are optional. Plain black shoes and a book bag are also required, so families can prepare everyday clothing without buying branded items.