Ouston Primary School Nursery

Play indoors and outdoors, stories that build vocabulary, and music through Charanga give Ouston’s nursery its shape. This is provision for children aged 3 to 4 within Ouston Primary School, with 15-hour funded places and 30-hour places for eligible families.

The early years provision reached Expected standard in the inspection published on 2 June 2026. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision as a whole. It is useful context for parents choosing the nursery, rather than a separate nursery rating.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines children’s own play choices with activities guided or led by adults. In everyday terms, children have time to follow an interest, explore independently and then work on something an adult introduces. Practical play takes place in both the outdoor and indoor learning environments, giving children different settings in which to try out their ideas.

Language has a clear place in early years learning. In June 2026, children took part in songs and stories, adults deliberately introduced vocabulary, and writing opportunities were frequent. Rhyme and repeated patterns supported number learning. These activities connect speaking, listening and early mathematical understanding with things young children can join in and enjoy.

Charanga music lessons begin in Nursery, supported by Durham Music Service. Children explore and create music as well as listening, singing and performing. Charanga provides a named teaching programme alongside the songs children join in with during early years learning.

Adults also build learning around children’s interests. A June 2026 early years example involved a conversation during snack time about a rocket made at home. The adult developed this into discussion about designing something and judging how it worked. It shows how an ordinary conversation can become a practical learning opportunity.

Relationships and familiar routines support settling. In June 2026, early years children adapted promptly to established routines, while staff worked on relationships with families and children. Over their time in early years, children developed confidence and the ability to recover from difficulties.

For children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), the school uses Assess, Plan, Do, Review: identify the need, agree support, put it into practice and check progress. Parents participate in this process, and Support Plans are reviewed each term. This gives families a continuing role in decisions about support rather than a single conversation at the outset.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet its deadline. Durham County Council is the route for primary school admissions; treat the nursery application and the Reception application as separate decisions.

Transition support has its own purpose. For a child already identified with SEND, staff work with their nursery during the summer term, including observation visits and meetings involving parents, nursery staff and relevant agencies. Families are informed when agency contacts change. This helps pass on knowledge of the child’s needs; it does not secure admission.

The nursery has its own application form. Families can arrange an appointment to see the school and speak with the headteacher before applying, providing an opportunity to discuss whether the provision suits their child.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school on 0191 410 2599 or email info@oustonprimary.org.uk. The 30-hour funded option is conditional on eligibility; the 15-hour option is also offered.