Westfield Primary School Nursery Review

Purposeful play and a familiar adult give Westfield’s nursery its character. Opened in January 2022, the provision forms Foundation Stage 1 within Westfield Primary School in Cottingham. Each child has a keyworker, giving them a particular adult to turn to as they settle into nursery life.

In February 2024, Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Outstanding. That judgement covers the early years foundation stage, rather than a separately inspected nursery. Activities and resources were selected to address children’s individual barriers to learning, with exceptionally sustained attention and engagement. This is the strongest evidence for the quality of the early years experience here.

Children move between play they direct themselves and teaching led by adults. Learning takes place indoors and outdoors, with provision areas for exploration alongside focused lessons. The balance gives children room to pursue an interest while adults introduce new ideas and skills.

The Early Years Foundation Stage, or EYFS, brings together learning and care. At Westfield, it includes emotional and social development, movement and communication, alongside early reading, maths, creative work and understanding the world. Investigating, trying things out and persevering are part of the approach. Children are encouraged to develop ideas and work out solutions, rather than simply complete an activity.

Language receives sustained attention. Songs, games, poems and stories give children different ways to practise speaking and listening; conversations with adults extend vocabulary and understanding. Bug Club Phonics supports early reading, while Master the Curriculum links early mathematics to White Rose. These named approaches sit alongside topics that can respond to children’s interests.

Across early years, experiences include visitors, performances, trips, themed activities and religious celebrations. Progress is checked through observation, staff knowledge of each child and individual assessments. That information informs adjustments to teaching and support, so the next step builds on what a child can already do.

A keyworker provides continuity. Westfield’s aim is for that relationship to help children settle and feel comfortable seeking help from their adult. Seesaw carries photographs and short accounts of children’s achievements, giving parents a connection with what happens during the day.

Children with special educational needs and disabilities are included within the EYFS curriculum. Across the school, SEND support follows a graduated approach to intervention, and parents’ knowledge and views are valued. This gives families a role in discussing their child’s needs and support.

School lunch choices include a hot meal or a jacket potato. Packed lunches must exclude nuts and nut products, and children should bring a refillable bottle containing water. These school arrangements matter when planning lunch and discussing allergies.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through their home local authority by its application deadline. East Riding of Yorkshire Council coordinates the school’s admissions; families living outside East Riding apply through the authority where they live. Treat choosing nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions.

The nursery morning session runs from 8.45am to 11.45am, and an afternoon session also operates. Nursery enquiries go through the school office on 01482 844369. School visits can be arranged by calling the same number.

For everyday concerns, the child’s class teacher is the usual first contact. Appointments with senior staff are arranged through the office. If collection will be late, parents should inform the school and give the expected delay, allowing staff to plan for the child’s care.