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Nursery at Moorside Primary Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A small space for the youngest children sits within a shared early years unit at Moorside Primary Academy. That arrangement shapes the nursery experience: children can join the larger setting while having somewhere for activities matched to their development. Nursery provision includes children aged two, three and four, alongside Reception within the unit.
In February 2025, there was provision for eight two-year-olds. This is part of the school in Moorside, Consett, rather than a separate nursery setting.
Language, movement and learning to manage feelings are central to the nursery’s aims. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides the framework, with communication, physical development and social and emotional learning receiving particular attention. In parent terms, the emphasis is on helping children talk, become more independent and learn alongside others.
The school aims to make play-based experiences central to learning. The school aims to combine activities chosen by children with experiences introduced or guided by adults, using both indoor and outdoor learning areas. It also aims to encourage investigation, imaginative play and problem solving. These choices give children opportunities to follow an interest while receiving adult help to extend it.
Early years science includes using equipment to investigate their surroundings. In February 2025, early years children also practised skills that prepare them for reading each day. The youngest joined familiar rhymes, practised conversation and learned routines around sharing snacks. Learning includes ordinary social moments as well as planned activities.
Mixed ages. In February 2025, two-year-olds sometimes found the larger group with older children overwhelming, limiting their opportunities to practise communication. Age-appropriate play and time in the smaller space therefore matter for the youngest children.
Key workers provide an important point of support for two-year-olds. In February 2025, these children flourished with familiar adults and children of their own age in the dedicated small-group area. Snack routines gave them practice in offering food to others and taking turns.
Settling support includes Stay & Play sessions for children and their families. For children with SEND, additional introductory visits can be arranged; where local-authority support has already been secured, support is allocated before the child starts. An extended settling period can be discussed according to individual need. This makes preparation a practical part of starting nursery.
The SENDCO works with families and external professionals. School staff use specialist recommendations where possible, including speech and language work and exercises advised by physical therapists. Parents also provide information about allergies, dietary needs and health requirements before admission, helping staff prepare for individual care needs.
Attending this nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet the applicable deadline. Familiarity with the early years unit should not be treated as an admissions entitlement.
Preparation for a new class is a separate matter. Summer transition visits within the school are accompanied by a member of staff. Children can also use booklets containing photographs and information at home; additional visits and social stories may support children with SEND. These give families concrete ways to prepare for a change in classroom and adults.
The nursery is at Chester Road, Moorside, Consett, DH8 8EQ. Enquiries can be made on 01207 509724 or by emailing contact@moorsideprimary.org.uk. Prospective families are welcomed for school visits, providing an opportunity to meet staff and discuss starting nursery.
The early years provision includes two-year-olds and nursery children aged three and four.
Two-year-olds access the main early years setting and have a smaller area for activities suited to their needs.
The EYFS approach places emphasis on communication, physical development, and personal, social and emotional learning, through play indoors and outdoors.
No. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions process.
Stay & Play sessions support transitions. Children with SEND may have additional induction visits and an extended transition according to their individual needs.
