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Nursery at Turncroft Nursery School
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A Talking Table, a Finger Gym and outdoor play in all weathers give Turncroft’s nursery day its character: children have things to discuss, tools to try and space to move. This is a local authority nursery school in Darwen, rather than a nursery class within a primary school. It serves children aged 3 to 4, with 100 part-time places split equally between morning and afternoon provision. Children can access 15 or 30 hours.
The emphasis is on the first steps towards independence. Choosing resources, joining a small group and managing snack-time tasks all form part of the learning.
Morning provision begins at 8:45am and afternoon provision at 12:45pm. Self-registration leads into group learning, with teacher-led activities interspersed with time for children to choose their own play indoors and outside. Snacks, keyworker groups, toothbrushing and stories give the sessions recurring landmarks. Morning collection runs from 11:40am to 11:45am; afternoon collection is from 3:40pm to 3:45pm.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together learning to communicate, manage feelings and move confidently with early reading, writing, maths, creativity and understanding the world. Turncroft uses Development Matters to shape this curriculum, with topics adjusted around children’s needs. Red Rose Phonics Phase 1 introduces sound discrimination through songs, rhyme and listening games. The Talking Table supplies objects and pictures to prompt questions, while the Investigation Area gives children changes and growth to examine.
Physical learning has tangible equipment behind it. The Finger Gym and Fastening Station offer hand-strength challenges; balance bikes, scooters and wheelbarrows extend movement outdoors. Children use the large outdoor area in all weathers, and a Sports Cool coach leads a session each week. A stage and musical instruments provide another outlet, alongside weekly music and dance sessions.
Teaching consistency. At the May 2025 inspection, some curriculum areas needed clearer decisions about what children should learn, and support for communication, language and thinking varied between staff. These weaknesses meant some children’s learning was less developed than it could be. They are material considerations alongside the breadth of activities.
Settling starts with home visits, stay-and-play opportunities and conversations with families and previous settings. Staff use what they learn to shape the environment and the opening weeks. A child’s key person or teacher works with parents on Tapestry, the online learning journal. Families can contribute photographs and observations, connecting experiences at home with nursery learning.
Snack time also develops self-care. In May 2025, children were learning to pour their own drinks, peel fruit and wash their hands. Toothbrushing is part of both session routines. Family support includes help with toileting, eating difficulties and sleep concerns, giving parents someone to discuss everyday challenges with.
WellComm screening usually takes place during the first few weeks, with exceptions for children who are very unsettled. Results guide extra language activities and possible specialist referrals. In May 2025, children with SEND received prompt, effective help and participated in the full curriculum; safeguarding arrangements were effective.
Attendance at Turncroft does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate primary-school application through Blackburn with Darwen’s admissions route and meet the deadline for their application cycle.
Preparation and admission are separate matters. WellComm results are shared with parents and the receiving primary school, so information about language development can accompany the child. Turncroft also works with primary schools on expectations for school readiness, recognising that children develop at different rates.
Breakfast Club, Lunchtime Club and After School Club provide additional care within an 8:00am to 4:30pm service window. Families can use some or all of these services around their education place. These services and sessional care carry charges; contact the school for current charges. Invoices come through Tapestry each half term.
Visits can be arranged, and enquiries go to the office on 01254 701534 or office@turncroft.blackburn.sch.uk. Parents must supervise drop-off and collection and tell staff when someone different will collect their child. The school car park must not be used by families. With outdoor play continuing in all weathers, children should come prepared.
Children aged 3 to 4 attend, with 100 part-time places divided between 50 morning and 50 afternoon places.
Children can access 15 or 30 hours. Additional breakfast, lunchtime, after-school and sessional care services carry charges.
Children play outside in all weathers. Resources include balance bikes, scooters and wheelbarrows, and Sports Cool provides weekly coaching.
A key person or teacher works with families on Tapestry. Parents can add photographs, observations and experiences from home.
No. Families need a separate primary-school application through Blackburn with Darwen’s admissions route, by the deadline for their application cycle.
