Essendon CofE (VC) Primary School Nursery

Ruby Class brings nursery children and Reception together within Essendon’s Church of England primary school. That shared class identity is the defining feature here: nursery belongs to the school’s early years provision, rather than standing apart from it. Children join in the academic year in which they turn four.

A teacher and two early years practitioners make up the Ruby Class team. For families choosing a first school experience, the combination of a named class and an early years team gives this provision a clear place within the school.

Early learning includes Little Wandle Foundations for nursery children and White Rose Maths across the early years foundation stage (EYFS). These give parents two concrete starting points for understanding the learning: foundations for reading alongside mathematical understanding. Maths follows small steps, using objects and pictures before abstract ideas, with teaching that checks understanding and adjusts support or challenge.

The school grounds include a forest and substantial outdoor areas used for learning and play. Ruby Class activities also bring physical learning into focus. In October 2025, Balance Ability brought balance bikes and activities aimed at developing balance, confidence and awareness of space. This was a specific class experience, rather than a promise about the weekly timetable.

Christian celebrations are part of Ruby Class life. At the October 2025 Harvest service at St. Mary’s Church, the class sang with accompanying actions. Such shared performances give children an opportunity to participate in the school’s church life.

Early learning needs scrutiny. In July 2022, Ofsted identified weaknesses in how early years phonics teaching responded to individual children and how physical maths resources were used. Some children consequently progressed too slowly; improving literacy and matching learning more closely to children’s needs were priorities. These findings make the detail of individual support an important consideration for families.

Starting nursery can be gradual. Reduced timetables and a January start can be accommodated where appropriate, allowing the beginning to be adjusted to the child rather than requiring one fixed pattern for everyone.

The school’s inclusion team comprises a SENCO, an assistant SENCO and an inclusion assistant. There is also a safeguarding team with designated leads responsible for responding to concerns and working with other agencies. These are school arrangements within which the nursery operates.

Food belongs in the practical picture too. The school has changed its meal provider following dissatisfaction and feedback from pupils. It describes the replacement service as providing larger portions and improved meals. Prescription medication requires written parental permission; staff do not administer non-prescription medicines.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Hertfordshire County Council, which administers the school’s admissions under its Primary Admissions Policy. Treat choosing nursery and applying for Reception as two separate decisions.

Ruby Class’s shared nursery and Reception identity describes the educational organisation. It should not be read as an admissions entitlement.

The nursery accepts children through the government’s 15 and 30 hours free childcare schemes. Those funded options sit alongside the possibility of an adjusted start where appropriate.

For nursery applications and visits, contact the school office. A nursery application form is available, and prospective families can arrange a tour through the office. Telephone 01707 261209 or email admin@essendon.herts.sch.uk. The school is on School Lane, Essendon, AL9 6HD.

Parents also have a termly forum at which they can give their views about school life. This provides a further route for contributing to the wider school community once a child has joined.