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Nursery at Springfield 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Tweezers, noodles and plenty of movement give Springfield Academy’s nursery a concrete starting point for learning: small hands practise gripping while physical activity builds the strength needed for writing. This is the school’s own nursery in Darlington, on Salters Lane South, forming part of its early years provision.
Ofsted’s April 2026 inspection judged early years to meet the Expected standard. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision rather than a separately inspected nursery. Most children were doing well across their learning and development, with staff planning support around each child’s next steps.
Language runs through the day. Daily stories sit alongside singing, rhymes and conversation, giving children opportunities to listen, join in and explain their ideas. In April 2026, children were keen to talk about both their play and their work. For parents, that makes communication a practical part of learning rather than something reserved for a single activity.
The early years foundation stage brings together learning and development. Here, the inspected provision connects communication with early literacy, physical development and learning to manage feelings. Teaching of letter sounds supports the beginnings of reading, while children also practise pencil grip and the formation of letters and numbers.
Preparation starts with physical skills in the nursery year. Picking noodles up with tweezers develops grip; movement strengthens the body. These activities give a clear picture of how play and exercise contribute to the skills children will later use when writing. The emphasis is on building the foundations as well as practising the finished skill.
Support begins with identifying what might get in the way of learning. In April 2026, early years staff recognised barriers promptly and arranged help in good time, including for disadvantaged children and children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Staff shared an accurate understanding of individual learning goals, allowing activities and support to be planned around the child.
Predictable routines also serve a purpose beyond keeping the session organised. Adults demonstrate the behaviour they expect, helping children begin to manage emotions and control their responses. Children develop friendships and learn how to get along. That gives social learning a place alongside early reading and writing.
For children attending over lunchtime, the EYFS lunch period starts at 12.10pm.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet the applicable deadline. Darlington Borough Council’s Admissions Department coordinates the annual September admissions round. Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as separate decisions, and keep track of the council’s application timetable.
For an initial enquiry, telephone 01325 254000 and ask for Springfield Academy. The Education Village academies share their main holiday periods, although staff training days can differ between schools. Check Springfield’s own calendar when planning childcare around closures.
No. Nursery and Reception admissions are separate, and families must apply again through the normal Reception admissions process.
Early years met the Expected standard. This judgement covers the school’s early years provision, rather than a separate nursery inspection.
Nursery children use tweezers to pick up noodles, developing their grip, while physical activity builds core strength.
The April 2026 early years findings describe prompt identification of barriers to learning and timely support, with staff planning around individual learning goals.
Telephone 01325 254000 and ask for Springfield Academy.
