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Nursery at Berkhampstead 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
French, phonics and a dedicated Early Years gym give Berkhampstead’s Kindergarten a distinctly school-based day. This is the school’s provision for children aged three to four in Cheltenham, with entry possible from a child’s third birthday. It sits within the pre-preparatory department, separate from Berkhampstead’s Day Nurseries.
In November 2023, the school’s Nursery had 35 children. That is a historical roll, rather than a measure of places available now. The Andrews Centre is a purpose-built Early Years building, giving the youngest school pupils their own physical base.
Learning combines classroom activities with specialist teaching and outdoor space. The Early Years Foundation Stage covers seven areas of learning: here, activities are matched to children’s needs, so learning builds on what they can already do. In the November 2023 ISI inspection, early-years teaching supported good progress, with phonics a particular strength. However, assessment was used less consistently to plan teaching in younger year groups. Inspectors recommended strengthening this so progress was consistent across subjects and year groups.
Essential Letters and Sounds introduces early reading and writing from Kindergarten; White Rose Maths provides the mathematics framework. French, PE and Music bring subject specialists into the week. These give children different ways to participate, through language, movement and sound.
Modern classrooms sit alongside a Forest School area, playground, all-weather games space and Early Years gym. Additional activities can include library visits and use of the cookery room, depending on attendance days. Choosing a pattern therefore also shapes which experiences a child encounters.
Autumn 2025 provides a concrete picture of the learning: Kindergarten children investigated ice, made animal shelters while exploring hibernation, and encountered Bonfire Night, Christmas and Diwali. Practical investigation and imaginative play gave them subjects to discuss and new vocabulary to use.
Settling-in sessions are offered to Kindergarten starters, alongside a form that helps staff get to know the child. Toilet training is an important part of readiness, although staff recognise that three-year-olds can still have accidents. Independence in personal care is encouraged gradually.
Teachers and teaching assistants support the early-years classes. In November 2023, early-years staff were appropriately trained and organised, knew children well, and helped them practise sharing, turn-taking and managing feelings. Relationships with home supported the tracking of development.
Lunch is also a social lesson. Children eat with a staff member at each table, giving them help with manners and eating habits. Food is prepared on site, and specific dietary requirements are catered for.
Additional needs. In November 2023, newer SEND support strategies were not yet established consistently in the lower school. Early-years support now follows an assess, plan, do and review cycle, drawing together observations from staff and parents. Families should discuss required support before entry; admission depends on the Learning Support Department being able to meet the child’s needs and, for physical disabilities, the suitability of the site.
Kindergarten attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Contact the school’s admissions team to confirm the arrangements for progressing from Kindergarten to Reception.
Familiarity with the next classroom serves a different purpose. In November 2023, early-years children could meet their next teachers and explore their next classrooms, helping the change feel more familiar rather than establishing any admissions advantage.
Monday to Friday, Kindergarten runs from 8.30am to 3.30pm, with mornings ending at noon. Gates open at 8.10am. Attendance is flexible, with a minimum of three sessions each week, and follows school terms.
Eligible children can use 15 hours of Early Years Funding; qualifying working parents may apply for the extension to 30 hours. Funded attendance can involve an optional additional-services charge covering meals and snacks, extra consumables and additional activities. Ask the school for current charges before choosing a pattern.
After-School Club serves Kindergarten from 3.30pm to 4.30pm, followed by Tea Time Club until 5.30pm. Wraparound and holiday sessions require advance booking. Uniform is worn, with School Blazer supplying it and a PTA second-hand shop on the Pre-Prep site. Enquiries and personal visits can be arranged through the admissions team on 01242 523263.
Children can join from their third birthday. Kindergarten caters for ages three to four.
Morning sessions run from 8.30am to noon; full days run from 8.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday. The minimum attendance is three sessions per week.
Yes. Eligible children can use 15 hours, with an extension to 30 hours for qualifying working parents who apply. An optional additional-services charge covers meals, snacks, extra consumables and additional activities.
No. Contact the school’s admissions team to confirm the arrangements for progressing from Kindergarten to Reception.
Kindergarten starters are offered settling-in sessions, and families complete a form to help staff get to know their child.
