Drybrook Primary School: Willow Nursery

Child-led play and an early start with sounds give Willow Nursery its character. This is Drybrook Primary School’s nursery class, with provision for two-year-olds, on Drybrook Road in Drybrook. Children begin exploring the sounds within words when they join, giving their play an early connection to reading.

In the inspection of 1 and 2 October 2024, Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Good. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Independence shapes the learning environment. Resources are arranged so children can reach them themselves, choose materials and develop their own ideas through play. The nursery aims to encourage curiosity and confidence through this approach. For a young child, that means opportunities to make choices rather than depend on an adult to select every activity.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together learning about language, relationships and movement with early literacy, mathematics, creativity and the wider world. At Willow, role play, reading and storytelling give children reasons to talk and extend their vocabulary. Funky Fingers activities develop hand control, while outdoor play gives movement a larger canvas. Practical number work explores patterns and how shapes and objects fit together, using a mastery approach intended to establish secure mathematical understanding.

Creative materials are independently accessible, with dance, music and imaginative play giving children different ways to express an idea. Learning also reaches beyond immediate play: local trips and experiences of other cultures help children explore their community and the world around them. The emphasis is on learning through things children can do, discuss and investigate.

Reading begins with listening. In October 2024, nursery children started by identifying letter sounds within spoken words. This is a concrete first step towards reading.

Tapestry and Dojo connect nursery learning with home, sharing children’s achievements with parents and carers. Those updates give families something specific to discuss with their child. In October 2024, parents also appreciated joining nursery Stay and Play sessions, an opportunity to take part in their children’s activities.

Emotional development sits alongside learning. Children practise expressing feelings and developing relationships, while staff use Anna Freud Centre resources to support mental health and well-being. The nursery aims to identify additional support needs early so help can become part of the child’s learning.

For concerns about special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the class teacher is the school’s first contact. The school aims to involve parents in planning support through a person-centred approach, giving families a role in discussions about their child’s needs.

Attending Willow Nursery does not guarantee a place in Drybrook’s Reception. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process. The application route is Gloucestershire County Council. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as two distinct decisions.

Willow Nursery can be contacted at willowadmin@drybrookschool.co.uk or on 01594 542448. The school office handles enquiries about joining, checking spaces and arranging a look around. A visit provides an opportunity to meet staff; families considering support for SEND are also invited to discuss their child’s individual requirements directly.