St James Infant School Nursery Review

A building of its own, an outdoor area reached directly from it, and regular involvement in school life give Poppies Pre-School a distinct identity within St James Infant School. Based in the school grounds in Daventry, it combines a separate space for younger children with opportunities to become familiar with the wider school.

Children can start in the term after their third birthday, with entry points in April, September and January. The provision belongs to St James Infant School rather than operating as a separate nursery. Ofsted graded the school's early years provision Outstanding at its inspection on 13 and 14 February 2024. That judgement covers early years across the school, rather than Poppies alone.

Children have opportunities to choose their own learning alongside activities guided by adults. The dedicated building opens directly onto a secure area for outdoor play and learning, allowing exploration to extend beyond the indoor space. This gives the nursery day two settings for discovery.

The early years foundation stage (EYFS) provides the framework for children's learning. In February 2024, activities across early years had clear purposes, and staff used their understanding of individual children to adapt provision. Busy blocks addressed gaps in children's knowledge. For parents, the useful distinction is that choosing an activity does not mean learning is left to chance: adults plan what children can gain from it.

Language and independence receive close attention. Adults demonstrated how to use language and asked questions that encouraged children to think further. Children concentrated for extended periods, worked together and showed independence. Established routines helped them understand what was expected, supporting participation as well as learning.

Poppies also joins school celebrations, performances, fundraising events and PE lessons. These experiences broaden the day beyond the pre-school building and give younger children repeated contact with school life.

A Pre-School Lead heads the Poppies team. Across early years in February 2024, staff understood children individually, identified their needs and shared that understanding with colleagues. That shared knowledge matters when several adults are involved in a child's day.

For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the school aims to identify needs early. Its specialist partners include speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, health visitors and the school nursing team. This gives families access to several kinds of professional input through the school.

Class Dojo carries everyday messages, reminders, photographs and videos of learning. Arbor handles school information and updates, while each class sends a newsletter home every term. These routes give parents ways to follow activities and keep track of practical information.

Attending Poppies does not guarantee a Reception place and gives no priority in Reception allocation. Families must make a separate application through West Northamptonshire Council. The application window opens in September, with a January deadline; check the Council's exact dates for the relevant intake.

Participation in performances, celebrations and PE helps children become familiar with St James. That familiarity is useful preparation for a change of setting, but it does not alter the admissions process.

Both 15-hour and 30-hour funded places are offered, subject to availability. Children taking a 30-hour funded place incur an additional charge for lunchtime provision. Contact the school for current charges.

To register interest, return the registration form to sjis-admin@sjis.inmat.org.uk or deliver it to the school office. The pre-school team can also supply forms. Personal tours run throughout the year and can be arranged through the office on 01327 702783, giving families an opportunity to meet the team and see the learning spaces.