Norton Infant School Nursery

A tractor, a fire engine and a mobility scooter turned transport learning into something tangible for Norton’s nursery children. During a vehicle showcase on the school grounds, they examined wheels, lights and mirrors, then used traffic observations to make a simple tally. Real objects gave them something to discuss, compare and count.

This is Norton Infant School’s own nursery, on Campsall Balk in Norton, Doncaster. Nursery children take part in the school’s early years community meetings, where postcards celebrate kindness, effort and learning. They are involved in the life of the infant school from the outset.

Learning expeditions connect activities through a shared topic and are mapped against the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. In parent terms, the projects link the knowledge and skills children are learning rather than treating each activity as an isolated task. The transport expedition, We are on the move, shows how this works: a story, vehicle observations and counting were brought together around journeys.

The Bus is For Us supplied the story connection. Children looked closely at vehicles during the showcase, including a camper van and a scooter, and could sit inside or on some of them. A short visit to the junior school gave them another opportunity to observe traffic. Lolly sticks recorded what they had seen, making counting part of a recognisable experience.

Construction has also taken the topic into play. Nursery children assembled vehicles from large loose materials, collecting and carrying parts together and developing one another’s ideas. The activity combined making with cooperation.

Crew brings children together for group activities, adapted for early years. One outdoor Tranquil Tuesday session involved copying an adult’s movements, then taking turns to lead the group themselves before singing nursery rhymes. That gave children opportunities both to follow and to contribute.

Feelings become something children can talk about and represent. During a nursery mental health week, Zones of Regulation activities used feeling monsters; children made stick puppets with different expressions, choosing eyes and drawing mouths to show emotions. Craft and conversation worked together.

Pass the Teddy made sharing practical. Children brought their own bears for a circle game, passing them to a neighbour when the music stopped so another child could have a turn. The activity gave a familiar possession a role in practising consideration for others.

Early years staff have paediatric first aid training. A designated safeguarding lead and deputy provide the school’s safeguarding structure, with annual safeguarding training for staff. These are relevant care arrangements for families choosing the nursery.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Doncaster Council’s school admissions route and meet the deadline for their child’s entry year. Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as separate decisions.

For nursery enquiries, call Norton Infant School on 01302 700743. Doncaster school admissions can be contacted on 01302 737204 for the school application route.