Morchard Bishop Church of England Primary School Nursery Review

Songs, book talk and familiar routines shaped Morchard Bishop Pre-School's provision at the July 2023 inspection. This is the nursery provision within Morchard Bishop Church of England Primary School, serving children aged two to four. The school is on Church Street in Morchard Bishop, near Crediton. Nursery attendance and admission to the school are separate decisions.

Language gave the day a clear focus at the July 2023 inspection. In July 2023, children had frequent opportunities to discuss books, while songs and routines introduced them to activities they would encounter when moving into school. These experiences helped prepare them for learning about letters and sounds. The emphasis was on building the foundations first.

Established routines also helped children understand what was expected of them. In July 2023, the pre-school had a purposeful atmosphere, and children demonstrated curiosity and resilience. For parents, that combination matters: learning to take part in familiar activities sits alongside developing the confidence to keep trying.

Speech and language needs received specific attention in July 2023. Leaders recognised children who needed additional help and planned activities to support their development. This gave language support a place within the pre-school's learning, alongside its book discussions and songs.

SEND partnership. Across the school, July 2023 findings identified occasions when planned support did not work as intended, affecting pupils' learning and some parents' confidence. Leaders were asked to involve parents regularly when planning support. Families whose children need additional help should take this concern into account when considering the nursery.

Lunch offers a practical choice. Children can bring food from home or have a hot meal prepared in the primary school's kitchen. Hot lunches must be ordered and paid for ahead of time through ParentPay.com, so families choosing that option need to plan in advance.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must submit a fresh application to Devon County Council through the normal admissions route by the applicable deadline. For Reception, use www.devon.gov.uk/admissionsonline or submit the council's application forms. Apply directly to the school for nursery places.

Preparation for the move is a different matter. In July 2023, pre-school children were learning songs and routines also used in Reception. That familiarity can help children recognise parts of their next school day, but it does not replace the separate application.

Sessions run during school terms, Monday to Friday. Morning attendance is from 9am to noon, with afternoons running from 1pm to 3.30pm. A separate lunch session occupies noon to 1pm; the full day runs from 9am to 3.30pm and includes that lunch period. Sessions may change when numbers are low, so families should confirm their chosen pattern before arranging other childcare. Term-time operation means holiday care needs separate planning.

All children qualify for 15 funded hours a week from the term following their third birthday. Claiming this requires a registration form and birth-certificate evidence. Working parents with children aged two, three or four may qualify for 30 hours, subject to eligibility. For children aged three and above, attendance beyond 15 hours is charged and invoiced each half-term; ask the school for current charges. Workplace childcare vouchers and payments through an HMRC tax-free childcare account are accepted.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school on 01363 877328 or email adminmorchardbishop@thelink.academy. Visits to the school can be arranged through the same contacts.