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Nursery at Durham Gilesgate Primary School
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Learning new words and learning to manage feelings give this nursery its clearest character. Durham Gilesgate Primary School includes provision for two-year-olds, with nursery learning organised through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). This is the early childhood framework used here, rather than the subject curriculum followed by older pupils.
Ofsted graded the school's early years provision Good following its inspection on 16 and 17 May 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating. The useful detail for parents is how adults connect children's existing learning with their next steps.
Vocabulary has a deliberate place in the day. In May 2023, the early years team selected words for children to learn, with the learning environment and conversations with adults supporting that work. For a young child, this means language development is part of their interactions and activities, rather than simply a separate exercise.
Learning also starts from what children already understand. Staff used assessment to spot gaps and gave extra help through activities. That makes the next step personal: children can receive support within their learning, with adults responding to what they need to practise.
The EYFS curriculum includes children's social and emotional development alongside learning. In May 2023, children were able to handle their emotions and enjoyed learning with other children. These are meaningful parts of a nursery day: becoming comfortable alongside peers matters as well as acquiring new knowledge.
Knowing the children is a practical strength in the early years findings from May 2023. Staff understood them well and used that knowledge to respond to gaps in learning. Support was woven into activities, giving children additional help as they took part.
For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the school's curriculum policy provides for learning at an appropriate pace and level, with adaptations where needed. The stated aim is education and support alongside peers. Families can arrange an appointment to discuss SEND requirements, providing a direct opportunity to explain their child's needs.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet the applicable deadline. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as two separate decisions; attending nursery should not be taken as securing the next place.
The school office is the direct enquiry route, by telephone on 0191 384 7284 or email at gilesgateprimary@durhamlearning.net. There is also a contact form for a written message. The school's address is Kepier Crescent, Gilesgate, Durham, DH1 1PH.
Families who need school documents on paper or in another format can request them through the office. This gives parents another way to read the information relevant to their child and discuss it with the school.
Yes. Durham Gilesgate Primary School includes provision for two-year-olds.
The nursery follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), including learning and social and emotional development.
At the inspection on 16 and 17 May 2023, early years provision was graded Good. Staff knew children well, planned vocabulary and used assessment to guide extra support.
No. A separate Reception application is required through the normal admissions process.
Contact the school to arrange an appointment. The school's curriculum policy allows for learning at an appropriate level and pace, with adaptations where needed.
