ACS Cobham International School Nursery Review

Finger-puppet stories, Forest School and a pause for quiet time give ACS Cobham’s nursery day its character. This is provision for children aged 2 to 4 within the school’s Lower School, with half-day and full-day options. Pre-Scramblers caters for ages 2 to 3, and Scramblers for ages 3 to 4. The example timetable names its youngest group Flopsy Bunnies.

A dedicated Early Childhood Village gives the youngest children their own setting within the campus. In February 2025, there were two Nursery classes within the Lower School’s early-years provision. That places nursery life within a school structure while retaining classes for this youngest stage.

Play has a clear daily framework. The example early-childhood timetable begins with free play in the classroom or playground, followed by a morning meeting at 8:30. Morning activities combine construction, pretend play and creative work with early mathematics and literacy. There is also a specialist class and a break. Lunch takes place in classrooms at 11:45; half-day children leave at 12:00.

For full-day Flopsy Bunnies and Scramblers, the afternoon starts with quiet time before further activities. Specialist experiences include swimming, STEM, performing arts, PE and Forest School. Scramblers also has French or Spanish. These give children different ways to explore movement, language and practical discovery alongside classroom play.

The early years foundation stage (EYFS) here develops the building blocks of communication, number work and literacy through children’s interests. At the February 2025 ISI inspection, teaching in early years was skilful and responsive to those interests, helping children become more confident learners. Children created stories with finger puppets, while a separate technology space supported digital exploration.

Outside, climbing equipment forms part of a substantial early-years play space. In February 2025, children chose materials for themselves and played confidently with others. The physical setting therefore supports both movement and independence, rather than serving only as a break from classroom learning.

Sharing and turn-taking are taught through play. Adults reinforce considerate behaviour with praise, and children also vote on classroom activities. These are small, practical opportunities to practise making choices and working with other children. In February 2025, early-years staff included people trained in paediatric first aid.

English-language support takes an immersion approach from age 2 through Kindergarten, giving young children opportunities to learn English within their daily experience. SEND provision accommodates mild to moderate learning needs, subject to admission requirements and space; the school cannot support severe behavioural, emotional or learning difficulties. That boundary matters when assessing whether a child’s support needs fit the provision.

For meals, the school offers an optional hot lunch cooked on site, and children may bring a packed lunch. The classroom lunch arrangement keeps eating within the early-childhood day’s familiar setting.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Confirm continuing-enrolment arrangements with the admissions team before making plans for Reception.

Preparation for the next stage also happens through learning. In February 2025, early-years teachers monitored progress towards skills such as recognising letters, understanding their sounds and beginning to read. This preparation is distinct from admission to the next class.

Pre-Scramblers requires at least two morning half-days each week; Scramblers requires at least five. Full-day options are also offered. The academic year runs from August to June, with tuition paid by semester, so families need to plan around a school calendar and its breaks.

Classroom materials are included in tuition. Some trips and extracurricular activities carry additional charges; contact the school for current charges. Extended Day Club begins at Pre-K, which corresponds to UK Reception, so families choosing the younger nursery groups should plan around their nursery sessions.

An enquiry form registers interest without committing a family to an application. The Admissions Team can arrange an Open Day visit or Personal Tour of the campus.