The Littletons Church of England Academy Nursery Review

Sixteen nursery places and a trained teacher leading the provision give The Littletons a clear school-based identity. The pre-school takes children aged three and four, within a Church of England school in South Littleton. Its Christian values include respect, caring and responsibility, placing children's relationships alongside their learning.

Early years provision was graded Good at the Ofsted inspection on 18 and 19 March 2025. That judgement covers the school's early years provision rather than a separately inspected nursery. The strongest evidence concerns learning tailored to children, quick settling and strong progress. Outdoor provision carries an important qualification.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) has its own annual curriculum plan. In practice, learning connects activities with children's development: in March 2025, children used role play to explore Palm Sunday. Acting out a story gives children an active way to engage with its events, rather than simply listening. Activities closely suited children's needs, helping them progress.

Forest School takes early years children into the school's own forest area each Friday. This gives outdoor learning a regular place in the week. A Forest School Shelter has also been donated to the school by the Atch Lench Graveyard Trust, adding a named physical feature to the wider school grounds.

Outdoor learning. In March 2025, the early years outdoor environment had insufficient development and resources to support the full breadth of learning. The required improvement concerned physical development, exploration and extending learning outdoors. Families should weigh that finding alongside the regular Forest School sessions; the shelter alone does not establish that the concern has been resolved.

Settling was a strength in March 2025: early years children adjusted quickly, while children felt safe from their start in Nursery. The close match between activities and individual needs supported both participation and progress, giving reassurance about the first steps into school-based learning.

For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the school involves parents in decisions about education and support. Teaching adaptations and reasonable adjustments are part of its approach to removing barriers. The SEND coordinator can be reached through the school office, giving families a direct contact for discussing support.

Lunch can be included in a morning session, extending its finish from 11:50am to 12:20pm. This allows a shorter day to include the lunchtime routine.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through the normal Reception process and meet its deadline. For a September Reception start, the application route is Worcestershire County Council's online school admissions service. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions.

An 8:50am start applies throughout the pre-school week. Monday opening ends at 12:20pm; Tuesday to Friday opening extends to 3:20pm. Full days and morning half-days are offered, with morning sessions ending at 11:50am or at 12:20pm when lunch is included. Monday's shorter opening matters when planning a working week.

Funding options cover 15 and 30 hours. The school office handles pre-school enquiries, and families can arrange a school visit by getting in touch. Contact office@thelittletons.dowmat.education or telephone 01386 830695.

Sky-blue tops are encouraged for pre-school children, including t-shirts, jumpers or cardigans. A school logo is optional. The uniform Swap Shop accepts requests from any parent or carer at the school, offering another route to suitable clothing.