Hillfields Nursery School: nursery life and the next step

Coat pegs within children's reach capture the practical thinking at Hillfields: learning to do things for yourself starts with getting your own outdoor clothes. This maintained nursery school on Clifton Street in Coventry provides education for children aged two to five, alongside Early Help for families. Qualified teachers lead the provision, with close links to Harmony Family Hub.

Classes distinguish younger children aged two to three from the three-to-four group. The focus is nursery education itself, with play, communication and growing independence shaping the day.

Sessions follow a predictable pattern, with children learning alone, alongside a partner and in small groups. Indoor and outdoor spaces support choice; those low coat pegs make independence a practical task rather than an abstract aim. Outdoor learning forms part of children's education, rather than simply a break between activities.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers learning through play and exploration. At Hillfields, communication, movement and social development provide the starting point, supporting later learning in number, reading, creativity and understanding the world. The Opportunities and Provocation curriculum adapts as staff observe children's interests and learning needs. Assessment of Play (APL) and Learning helps establish each child's starting point, so activities can build on what they already understand.

Language work has concrete substance. In May 2023, children studied living butterflies and learnt to use the term chrysalis accurately through adult questioning. Songs, rhymes and signs supported communication, including expressing feelings. Stories were introduced in a planned sequence, with resources helping children understand them. A visiting construction worker discussed building-site safety equipment, connecting learning with working life.

Monster Phonics Foundation Programme Phase 1 is the named approach to early phonics. For preschool children ready for an introduction to letters and sounds, Jolly Phonics Jingles adds another route into that learning.

Settling starts with relationships. Each child has a Key Person who works with the learning group leader to support the child and family in Meadow. Initial sessions are shorter, then increase according to the child's needs. Home visits and visits with parents before starting were part of the preparation described at the May 2023 inspection.

Parents can talk with staff at either end of a session or arrange a longer appointment. Half-termly reviews bring the child's learning journal into the conversation, giving families a regular chance to discuss progress. Snacks include raw vegetables or fruit, with water or milk; lunch-club children bring a packed lunch. Changing facilities support children using nappies, and parents supply spare nappies and wipes. Staff also work with families on toilet training.

SEND support connects the nursery with Harmony Family Hub, Coventry's Complex Communications Team (CCT) and speech and language therapy. Staff training includes Makaton and Portage. In May 2023, additional needs were recognised before children started, with individual plans specifying strategies and next steps. Safeguarding was effective at that inspection. Protective Behaviours teaching addresses personal safety, including accurate names for body parts.

Attending Hillfields does not guarantee a Reception place. Nursery admission and Reception admission are separate: families must make a fresh application through the normal Reception process by its deadline.

Preparation for the move is a separate matter. Hillfields has links with Sidney Stringer Primary School. For children needing SEND transition support, records are passed on and staff contact the receiving school's SENCo or Inclusion Manager. Depending on the child, arrangements may include a meeting with parents and professionals, visits to the new setting or a photograph book. These help the next team understand the child; they do not secure admission.

The usual offer is five mornings, 08:45–11:45, or five afternoons, 12:30–15:30. Session preference. Requests linked to work or college can be considered, but cannot all be accommodated. Families need a pattern that fits their commitments.

Funded provision includes the universal 15-hour offer for three- and four-year-olds and places for qualifying two-year-olds. Eligible families can access 30-hour provision; the home page gives 08:45–15:30 for funded expanded care for two-year-olds and the 30-hour three-year-old offer. Willow wraparound is for settled three-year-olds needing longer care. Paid provision and lunch club are also offered; ask the school for current charges, including the snack contribution.

To apply, complete the nursery application form and take it to the school. Visits can be arranged on 02476 228174. The contact address identifies the Arnside Close entrance. Uniform guidance proposes a green jumper or cardigan that can be bought from supermarkets or online.