Hemyock Primary School Nursery Review

Language through play gives Star Class its defining focus: children explore a concept each week, then return to it four weeks later. This is Hemyock Primary School’s nursery, accepting children aged from 2 to 5 years, with day-to-day running overseen by the headteacher, supported by the KS1 lead teacher.

There is an important caution alongside that approach. The January 2026 Ofsted inspection judged early years as needing attention. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision; it is not a separate nursery rating. Positive relationships sit alongside substantial concerns about what children learn.

Conversation and play are the nursery’s chosen starting points for language development. Weekly concepts include shape, family, movement and time. Planned activities give children opportunities to try the vocabulary in practical situations, while revisiting concepts after four weeks is intended to help them remember and use it.

Children can select their activities, and the choices change in response to their interests and needs. Messy play happens daily. Clothing suitable for outdoors, including wellington boots, belongs in their kit. Term endings bring activities connected with Easter, Christmas or moving on celebrations.

The early years foundation stage (EYFS) includes work on movement and emotional development. Complete PE supports physical education, with the early years focus on small and large movements. One Decision is used from EYFS onwards to teach personal, social and health education, including feelings, relationships and staying safe.

The intended learning needs to be weighed against the January 2026 findings. Teaching of the recently introduced early years curriculum was inconsistent, and activities did not sufficiently match children’s developmental needs. Language development and practice of basic skills were too weak, leaving most children insufficiently prepared for subsequent learning. There were tentative improvements for two- and three-year-olds, but consistent teaching had yet to follow. Strengthening staff expertise, adult interaction and activity planning remained necessary.

Relationships were a positive feature of early years in January 2026. Staff connected positively with children, and parents appreciated being welcomed into conversations about learning. Colour monsters helped children express worries and handle emotions, giving them a practical way to discuss how they felt.

Tapestry links learning at nursery with home. Families can see experiences recorded in the online journal and contribute videos, photographs and notes themselves. This gives parents a way to add their child’s experiences outside nursery to the conversation.

For SEND enquiries, the school office provides access to the special educational needs coordinator. This is a direct contact route for families wishing to discuss their child’s needs.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Devon County Council’s normal admissions process. Applications can be made online, and the process usually closes in mid January. Treat that application as a separate task, even while your child attends Star Class.

The morning session runs from 8.40am to noon, followed by a lunch session from noon to 12.30pm. Afternoon provision runs from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. These distinct sessions give parents concrete times around which to organise the day.

Universal funding provides 15 hours from the term after a child turns 3. Star Class also accepts eligible children’s two-year-old funding and participates in 30 hours extended funding for eligible parents. Contact the school for current charges.

Uniform is optional for nursery children. Choose clothes with daily messy play in mind, plus outdoor footwear and clothing. Visits can be arranged by appointment through the office: telephone 01823 680240 or email hemyock@thsp.org.uk.