Cramlington Shanklea Primary School Nursery

Children’s interests help shape the topics at Shanklea’s preschool, where adult-led activities sit alongside play that children choose themselves. This is the school’s own provision for ages 2 to 4, combining Nursery with a separate provision for two-year-olds, Shanklea Squirrels. Children can start in the term following their second birthday. A Nursery Lead works alongside an EYFS assistant team.

Topics are planned for each half term, with staff meeting weekly to organise activities. Children contribute ideas, and their interests influence what follows. That gives the day both a planned framework and room for children’s choices. Sessions include activities across the seven learning areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

In parent language, this means learning to communicate, move and manage relationships alongside early reading, number work, creativity and exploring the world. Conversations take place individually and in groups; children listen to stories and learn words for their experiences. Physical learning includes balancing, climbing and handling tools and materials, as well as practising dressing and personal hygiene. These are everyday skills as well as preparation for later learning.

Read, Write Inc contributes literacy activities, including exploring letters and sounds, handling books and making early attempts at writing. Number learning includes counting, comparing quantities and investigating shapes and patterns. The EYFS also uses Mastering Number. Paint, dance, music and role-play give children different ways to express ideas. Children have access to learning environments indoors and outside, and the school has adaptations for children and carers with disabilities.

Each child has a key worker who acts as the principal contact for parents. Staffing ratios are 1:8 in Nursery and 1:4 in Shanklea Squirrels. The key worker and family build a picture of the child’s interests, needs and development together, giving parents a specific person with whom to share concerns or achievements.

Tapestry learning journals provide a two-way connection between home and Nursery. Parents can access them around the clock and contribute details about activities and development at home. Staff use observations and photographs to track progress, so communication includes examples of what a child is doing and learning.

For additional needs, the school uses a graduated approach: the class teacher starts the process, supported by the SEND team and external specialists where appropriate. Parents and children are involved in decisions. Personal care arrangements protect children’s privacy and dignity, with another staff member available to supervise changing. Child protection training forms part of staff induction and is mandatory for all staff.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet the relevant deadline. Northumberland County Council is the contact for school admissions information and appeals.

Transition support is a separate matter. When children finish Nursery, a transition report goes to their family and their Reception class. This passes information about the child onwards; it does not secure admission.

Families can choose morning sessions, afternoon sessions or a combination. Full days become an option from the term after a child’s third birthday, so the attendance choices change with age.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 01670 715205 or email admin@shanklea.northumberland.sch.uk.