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Nursery at Dover College
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Mud pies in the Discovery Garden and stories in the library give Dover College’s nursery its character: play connects with the life of a larger school. Children also have music and PE with specialist teachers, so their day reaches beyond the nursery’s own spaces.
The nursery sits within the College’s Prep provision on its Dover campus. Its EYFS curriculum caters for children aged 3 and above, while funded early education is offered to eligible 2, 3 and 4-year-olds. In February 2024, there were 11 nursery children. That is a dated headcount, rather than a measure of places available today.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines activities children choose themselves with sessions adults plan. In parent language, there is room to follow an interest as well as join a taught activity. Languages, PE and music form part of nursery learning; Friday assembly, the Prep Nativity and Summer Concerts bring children into shared school occasions.
Outdoor learning has a named home. The Discovery Garden hosts Forest School, with outdoor lessons taking place weekly from the early years onwards. Children explore plants and trees, make mud pies and work with natural materials. A dedicated Early Years playground adds another place to play. Access to the theatre, music school, astro pitch and sports hall gives staff different settings for activities.
February 2024’s ISI inspection found early years staff appropriately trained and qualified, with planning and resources matched to children’s development. Curriculum discussions every fortnight and learning profiles helped staff respond to individual needs and provide suitable challenge. One nursery activity brought number learning together with discussion of China for Chinese New Year as children filled containers using dried rice and noodles. Small movements and number learning came together in a practical task. Outdoors, tricycles, games with balls and making potions supported physical development.
Before a nursery offer, children must take part in at least one taster session. This gives them an initial experience of the setting before a family accepts a place. Where a child already receives learning support, families must share that information when registering, together with their latest educational psychologist’s report; a SENCO meeting then assesses the support needed and whether the College can provide it.
Meals take place in the Refectory. Food is nut free, with vegetarian choices and provision for dietary needs including gluten-free diets and dairy or lactose intolerance. Soups, pasta and filled jacket potatoes are among the meal options. Nursery lunch carries a separate charge, so it needs to be included when planning attendance.
Safeguarding arrangements include annual staff training and induction training for new staff. In February 2024, additional risks affecting early years children had been considered and suitable protective measures put in place.
Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Ask the Admissions Team to confirm the arrangements for moving into Reception, including any application requirements and deadlines.
Shared assemblies, performances and contact with older pupils make the wider school familiar during nursery life. That familiarity is useful preparation for change; it is separate from the decision about a Reception place.
Opening hours are 8am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, across 50 weeks each year. Session choices include a full day from 8am to 4pm, a morning from 8am to noon, and an afternoon session.
Eligible children’s funding follows a stretched pattern over 48 weeks: the 30-hour entitlement becomes 24 hours each week across three full days; the 15-hour entitlement becomes 12 hours across three mornings. Additional unfunded hours are charged separately. Contact the College for current charges.
A one-way system runs through the site for drop-off. Clothing must be clearly named, and Schoolblazer Ltd supplies most uniform items. Enquiries can go to admissions@dovercollege.org.uk; private visits can also be booked.
EYFS learning combines children’s own choices with planned activities. Music, languages, PE and Forest School are included, with access to the Discovery Garden and other College facilities.
The nursery opens from 8am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, for 50 weeks each year. Full-day and morning sessions end earlier than the overall opening hours.
For eligible children, funding is stretched over 48 weeks. The 30-hour entitlement provides 24 hours weekly across three full days, while the 15-hour entitlement provides 12 hours across three mornings. Lunch and additional unfunded hours carry charges.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Ask the Admissions Team to confirm the arrangements for moving into Reception, including any application requirements and deadlines.
Yes. At least one taster session is required before a nursery offer can be made. Families can also book a private visit.
