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Nursery at Whittle 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Story songs, dough gym and experiments with ice give Whittle Academy’s nursery a practical, talk-filled character. Children explore ideas through movement, making and conversation, with independence woven into the activities. Learning to explain an idea sits alongside learning to wash hands or manage a change of clothes.
This is Whittle Academy’s own nursery in Coventry, on Narberth Way, with a nursery teacher within the school’s teaching team. Its place within the school brings access to school support structures, including a SEND coordinator and pastoral team.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach encourages children to investigate, persevere and develop their own ideas. In parent language, that means having a go, trying again when something proves difficult and finding different ways to tackle a task. Play carries the learning.
Spring activities make that approach concrete. Daily songs and stories support conversation, while small-group discussions give children opportunities to speak. Children practise using because to extend their explanations. Early work with words includes listening for initial sounds, recognising signs and making simple maps of stories, connecting spoken language with the beginnings of reading and writing.
Mathematics uses objects children can handle. Blocks and shapes support construction; containers introduce comparisons of size; puzzles develop recognition of shape. Sorting by size or colour and continuing patterns turn early mathematical ideas into things children can test for themselves.
Movement has its own purpose. Dough gym and pencil-grip practice develop hand control, while obstacle courses and playground games put larger movements to work. Investigations into melting and freezing encourage children to notice change. Making porridge adds another experiment: mixing ingredients and exploring what heating does to them.
In January 2024, early-years children developed confidence with language through rhymes, songs and stories, and used mathematical vocabulary to explain number patterns. The January 2024 inspection also identified insufficient practice of new sounds for a small number of pupils behind in reading.
Self-care is taught through ordinary routines, including toileting, handwashing and changing into clean clothes. Children also practise taking turns and discussing feelings, with deep breathing and sensory toys among the strategies used to help them manage emotions. These are practical skills for joining in with other children.
For families new to Whittle, starting arrangements include signing up for a home visit. Class Dojo carries updates, Tapestry shares learning, and Stay and Play opportunities let parents participate in school life. Nursery lunch is at 11:45.
Additional needs are addressed through an assess, plan, do and review cycle, with parents involved in discussions about targets and progress. Families can contact the SEND coordinator through the office. The school also uses the Thrive Approach across its provision, aiming to support emotional development and relationships.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place or confer admission priority. For the September 2027 intake, families must make a separate application through Coventry City Council using the normal application timetable. Choosing nursery and requesting Reception are separate decisions.
Sibling priority. A child attending nursery does not count as a sibling attending the main school for admission purposes. Families with another child applying should take that distinction into account.
Nursery enquiries can go to the school office on 024 7661 0167 or whittle.Admin@whittleacademy.org. Families can telephone to arrange a look around, giving them an opportunity to discuss joining and see the school. Whittle Academy is on Narberth Way, Coventry, CV2 2LH.
Spring activities include stories and songs, dough gym, construction with blocks, shape puzzles, obstacle courses and experiments with ice.
Families receive Class Dojo updates and learning updates through Tapestry. Stay and Play opportunities also involve parents in school life.
Nursery lunch is at 11:45.
No. Nursery attendance confers no admission priority, and parents must apply separately through Coventry City Council.
Telephone the school on 024 7661 0167 to make an appointment to look around.
