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Nursery at The Prebendal 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Postcards, pretend families and Beach School give early learning at The Prebendal School a distinctive character. Its Nursery and Pre-School cater for children aged two to four in Chichester, close to the Cathedral. This is provision within an independent school, with a learning environment designed for this age group rather than older pupils.
Structured activities sit alongside freely chosen play. The nursery aims to develop children’s confidence, communication and social skills through exploration, with qualified teaching staff supporting their learning. The city-centre setting also creates opportunities for local trips, connecting activities with the world beyond the nursery.
Language has a clear purpose here. At the November 2025 ISI inspection, early years children were making good progress, with adults extending their vocabulary and developing foundations in reading, writing and number. Children explained their postcard exchanges and family role-play confidently. These activities give them reasons to speak, listen and make themselves understood.
The early years foundation stage (EYFS) learning takes practical form through imaginative play, physical activity and growing independence. Learning about postal workers leads to letters and postcards; buying stamps at the post office introduces children to using money. Beach School and creative activities add further opportunities to explore and imagine.
Outdoor learning had a defined space at the November 2025 inspection. Early years children had their own closely supervised play area and used secure outdoor access effectively. Catching and throwing rugby balls helped develop larger movements, while moving around their surroundings built awareness of space. Physical development formed part of the learning, alongside language.
Respectful, compassionate teaching helped early years children feel confident in November 2025. Adults encouraged children to play together, giving them opportunities to practise social interaction beyond activities led by a teacher. Supervision was effective, with suitable staffing ratios maintained.
Small acts of self-care matter too. Children practised opening their own snacks and putting on coats, building independence through familiar tasks. The nursery says staff get to know each child and support settling, placing individual relationships alongside the practical business of learning to manage a nursery day.
Additional needs. The November 2025 inspection identified a school-wide weakness in SEND identification and support: staff understanding and classroom adaptations were inconsistent. This finding was not specific to nursery, but families considering additional support should weigh it alongside the positive early years findings.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Reception requires a separate application through the normal route and by the applicable deadline; choosing the nursery should not be treated as securing the next stage.
The nursery describes continuity into Pre-Prep as part of its approach. That educational continuity is a separate matter from admission entitlement.
Opening hours run from 7am to 7pm, giving the nursery a long operating window. These are opening hours rather than a promise about any particular booking pattern.
The school is at 52-55 West Street, Chichester, PO19 1RT. Families can request a personal visit using the visit form, after which the admissions team arranges the appointment. A tour includes opportunities to meet teaching staff and ask questions about a child’s education.
The Nursery and Pre-School cater for children aged two to four.
The nursery opens from 7am to 7pm.
Structured activities and free play sit alongside Beach School and creative activities. Early years inspection examples included postcard writing, family role-play and catching and throwing rugby balls.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place, and Reception is a separate application.
Yes. Complete the visit request form and the admissions team will arrange a personal visit.
