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Nursery at The Richard Pate 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Free movement between indoor play and its own outdoor grounds gives this nursery a distinct identity beside the main school. Children aged three to four attend on the school site in Cheltenham, with space to choose activities across both environments. The school connection also brings access to specialist teaching and woodland activities, depending on attendance days and the additional services families choose.
Choice and adult guidance share the day. Children select activities, join the group register and alternate their own play with activities led by staff. A topic gives each term's exploration a focus, encouraging children to develop ideas and conversation. Before lunch, the group comes together for stories, number work or phonics. Afternoon activities continue after a rest and outdoor play; a shared story closes the day.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) means learning extends beyond early reading and counting. Communication, movement and managing feelings receive particular attention, alongside mathematics, literacy, creative work and understanding the world. Staff observe children across these areas to track development. Play supplies the practice: choosing, experimenting and talking through ideas become part of learning.
In June 2024, ISI found that early years staff used children's interests, including superhero and building-site role play, to develop confident conversation and new vocabulary. The June 2024 inspection also recorded early years use of pallets, crates and a pirate ship, alongside woodland walks and weekly physical development lessons. These gave children ways to practise coordination and strength.
Specialist music in the main music school, French, dance and PE in the main School Hall, and forest school in the woodland form part of the optional additional provision. Activities depend on which day a child attends, so the attendance pattern affects the experiences included.
Each child has a key person who considers individual needs and supports progress. Circle Time uses Our Nursery Rules to explore friendship, kindness and behaviour; praise, certificates and stickers recognise helpfulness and achievement. A qualified teacher/SENDCo works with full-time and part-time teaching assistants, with additional intervention for children with SEND when needed. That places learning support within the nursery team.
Lunch involves choosing food with friends, with dietary requirements accommodated. Freshly prepared meals come from the school kitchen, and fruit and milk are provided as part of the lunch charge. Children have time to relax afterwards. For families using funded hours, food is an optional charged service, and alternatives are arranged with nursery leadership if parents decline it. Consumables such as wipes, nappies and sun cream also fall within optional additional charges.
Parents receive the weekly RPS Link, including notices and the following week's lunch menu, with ClarionCall providing email and text messages as needed. In the June 2024 inspection, school-wide safeguarding monitoring required strengthening after staff mobile-phone use fell outside leaders' expectations, although leaders acted promptly. Families should weigh that concern alongside the nursery's daily care arrangements.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Confirm Reception progression arrangements and timing with the school's admissions team before planning the next stage.
Transition activities address familiarity rather than admission. At a nursery transition event in June 2024, younger children visited the Reception classroom and received reassurance from older children. Shared play included a marble run and taking turns, giving the younger group a practical introduction to the people and space.
Five mornings run from 8.30am to midday; full-day patterns cover three, four or five days from 8.30am to 3.30pm. Arrival is staggered between 8.30am and 9am, with collection between 3.30pm and 4pm. After School Club operates in the nursery until 5.30pm, adding a snack and drink.
Eligible families can use 15 funded hours. These can be taken Monday to Friday within 8.30am to 1.30pm, including three days ending at 1.30pm or five mornings ending at 11.30am. Additional hours, specialist activities and wraparound sessions are optional charged services. Families declining extras retain provision meeting the EYFS requirements. Ask the school for current charges.
Enquiries and visit bookings go to admissions@richardpate.co.uk or 01242 522086. Schoolblazer supplies school uniform, and a parent-run second-hand shop opens during term.
The nursery caters for children aged three to four.
Yes. A five-morning pattern runs from 8.30am to midday.
Eligible families can use 15 funded hours, with optional charges for additional hours and services, including food, consumables and specialist activities.
The nursery team includes a qualified teacher/SENDCo and teaching assistants. Children with SEND receive extra support and intervention where needed.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Confirm Reception progression arrangements and timing with the school's admissions team.
