Vranch House School Nursery Review

A new movement or a first shared smile can be a learning milestone here. Vranch House’s nursery combines play with therapy and communication support for children with physical disabilities and complex needs. Its nursery and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision covers ages 2–5, within the specialist school on Pinhoe Road in Exeter.

Maple is the early years class, with play and physiotherapy central to its work. This is specialist provision with a defined entry profile: children need a physical disability alongside severe learning difficulties or profound and multiple learning difficulties, and an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Ofsted graded early years provision Outstanding following the inspection of 1 to 3 July 2025.

Play, movement and ways of communicating shape the day. The EYFS framework covers early learning and development, adapted here for children with SEND. Communication, physical skills and social and emotional development receive particular attention, alongside early number work, literacy and creative activities. The school’s Vranch House Individual Education and Wellbeing (VIEW) curriculum connects learning with each child’s EHCP and therapy goals, so physical development belongs within education rather than sitting apart from it.

Children choose some activities themselves; adults guide others. Maple’s daily topic-based play gives children opportunities to interact with peers, while its small outside area adds space for exploration. Class examples include animal-themed outings and trike use during the summer term. These give concrete experiences to explore through movement and play.

Communication has several routes. Staff use Makaton, symbols and objects of reference, as well as simple language, rather than relying on speech alone. Sensory spaces and opportunities to pause and regulate are part of the early years approach. In July 2025, early years children were learning number recognition and addition.

Physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language work are woven into the day. Maple children have worked towards physical targets through blocks of Hydrotherapy, Hippotherapy, Rebound and Innowalk sessions, alongside classroom activities. The hydrotherapy facility has a warm-water pool, hoists and accessible changing areas; its equipment supports participation for children with differing mobility needs.

Specialist teachers and teaching assistants work with therapists and NHS clinicians. Families help set goals from the beginning and receive support with communication strategies, giving home and nursery a shared focus. Earwig records learning through observations, photographs and video; parents have secure access and can contribute evidence themselves.

Medical care is supported by two school nurses and a Health & Wellbeing Coordinator. Their work includes medication plans, feeding, equipment and liaison with families and NHS services. Occupational therapy also addresses dressing, toileting and sensory processing, connecting care routines with developing independence.

Lunch can be a hot meal or a packed lunch from home. Vegetarian choices are offered, and dieticians and the nursing team support meal planning. Families work with staff on individual requirements, which can include altered food textures, allergy considerations and tube-feeding routines. Lunchtime support can also address posture, hand skills and communication, so eating and social interaction form part of the learning day.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Discuss the next stage with the Devon SEND Operations Team as part of EHCP planning. Vranch House’s specialist placements are arranged by the Devon SEND Operations Team, rather than offered directly by school staff.

EHCP annual reviews provide a place to discuss the next stage, including a move between classes. Families and professionals consider changing needs and future provision; recommendations then go to the local authority for its decision. That planning supports continuity of care and learning, while remaining separate from entitlement to a place.

Uniform is optional. Comfortable clothing, including adapted garments, takes precedence over branded items, a useful consideration for children with sensory or medical needs.

For enquiries, contact reception on 01392 468333 or email mail@vranchhouse.org. Visits can be accommodated where possible. Families whose child has not yet started school should contact the Devon SEND Operations Team for specialist-placement advice.