Heathfield Primary School Nursery Review

Play chosen by children sits alongside adult-led learning at Heathfield’s nursery, with talking, making and exploring all part of the early years curriculum. This is the nursery within Heathfield Primary School on The Broadway in Darlington, serving children aged 3–4. Families can use provision for 15 hours or, where eligible, 30 hours, giving two different ways to fit nursery into the week.

Children have time to follow their own interests as well as take part in focused teaching. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together language, movement, relationships, early reading and writing, number work, creativity and learning about the world. For parents, that means play and learning belong together: exploring an idea or making something is part of the curriculum, rather than a break from it.

The named Trust Ready curriculum puts emphasis on investigating, persisting with a challenge and developing ideas. Children are encouraged to try things, connect their thinking and work out different ways to tackle a task. The approach also recognises that children develop at different speeds, so individual needs shape their experiences.

In February 2025, children across the early years were enthusiastic about learning, with plentiful opportunities to develop language. Nursery reading preparation starts with conversation, songs, rhymes and shared stories. Words come first.

Writing foundations. The February 2025 inspection identified weaknesses in how writing skills were planned from the early years, leaving pupils short of the basics needed for greater accuracy and fluency. This is a material consideration alongside the emphasis on spoken language.

Lunch is part of the longer nursery session. Children attending the 30-hour provision can bring food from home or have a school dinner for a charge. Meals are cooked at school, and children are encouraged to taste unfamiliar foods rather than required to eat something they dislike. Early years children also receive free fruit through the Government Free Fruit Scheme.

Dietary arrangements need attention before meals begin. Special diets can usually be accommodated, but families must discuss them with the School Business Manager; allergies and special dietary requirements require a medical practitioner’s letter. Nuts and peanut butter must stay out of school.

For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the school uses individual support and small-group work, including help with emotions, social development and learning skills. Its approach includes assessment, partnership with parents and referral to outside agencies. Families provide emergency contacts and details of health and dietary needs before admission, helping staff prepare for their child’s care.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. The route is Darlington Borough Council’s Primary School Application (PSA), within the council’s coordinated arrangements. Treat this as a separate family decision and application, even when your child already attends Heathfield’s nursery.

For children using the 15-hour entitlement, morning sessions run from 8:45am to 11:45am, with an afternoon alternative from 12:15pm to 3:15pm. The 30-hour session runs from 8:45am until 2:45pm and includes lunchtime. All 3–4-year-olds are entitled to 15 hours of free early learning; eligibility for 30 hours applies to some children.

Uniform includes a royal blue cardigan or sweatshirt, white polo shirt and black or grey bottoms, with black flat shoes. Branded clothing is optional, so families can buy ordinary items. A waterproof coat is required too, as rain does not automatically stop outdoor play.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 01325 252 144 or email admin@heathfield.lingfieldtrust.org.uk. Visits can be arranged by getting in touch. At collection, children are handed to an adult known to staff.