E-ACT The Grange School Nursery Review

Talk, purposeful play and outdoor exploration shape the early years approach at E-ACT The Grange School in Daventry. Its nursery belongs to the primary school on Staverton Road, giving this provision a school setting from the outset. The emphasis is on helping children express ideas, develop relationships and explore their interests.

The school aims for children to feel secure, valued and ready to investigate. No Ofsted graded rating yet applies to the current school.

Adult-directed learning sits alongside play that children choose themselves. Within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the school uses the statutory framework alongside principles from CUSP, a curriculum with an emphasis on knowledge. In parent language, the approach combines learning with adults and opportunities to try ideas through play. Children have a part in choosing what they explore.

Conversation runs through that learning. Adults concentrate on vocabulary and discussion, with the aim of helping children explain their thinking and communicate with others. They join play and guide exploration, so an activity chosen by a child can also become a teaching opportunity. The school places personal, social and emotional development alongside this work, aiming to build confidence and respect for other people.

Outdoor learning adds a physical dimension: the outside environment is used for exploration, independence and movement. Technology also has a place in EYFS activities. Children use programmable toys, tablets and interactive screens, while games introduce sequences and simple instructions. These give children practical ways to investigate how actions fit together. Early online safety messages cover seeking help and protecting private information.

Teaching is adapted to individual needs within the early years approach. The school aims to build relationships through adults knowing each child and responding to their starting point, rather than expecting children to approach learning in precisely the same way.

For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the school provides adapted activities and materials matched to their needs and abilities. A SENDCo coordinates support, oversees records and reviews interventions and children's progress. That gives families a coordinating role to discuss when planning support.

Specialist links include the Speech and Language Therapist, Educational Psychologist and Sensory Impairment Service. These are school-wide arrangements; families considering nursery can discuss how they relate to their child. Their relevance is practical, especially where communication or sensory needs affect participation in activities.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet the normal deadline. Requests to join E-ACT The Grange go through West Northamptonshire Council's school admissions service. Treat choosing nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions, even when the preferred school stays the same.

School tours can be arranged by telephone on 01327 705785, and there is a Parent Tour Booking Form. A tour provides an opportunity to discuss admissions questions with the school. General enquiries can go to admin@gra.e-act.org.uk. The school address is Staverton Road, Daventry, NN11 4HW.