Boundary Oak School Nursery Review

Clay modelling, bug hunts and French give Little Acorns its character: play is the starting point, with specialist teaching woven into the pre-school curriculum. This is Boundary Oak School’s own nursery provision in Fareham, part of its early years department. The main pre-school entry point is ages 2 years and 9 months to 3.

Outdoor exploration is a substantial part of the offer. Children use the school grounds for learning, while a dedicated early years outdoor space gives nature-based activities their own setting.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) gives play a purpose. Little Acorns concentrates on physical development, learning to communicate, and managing feelings and relationships. For parents, that means the foundations of learning are built through conversation, movement and playing alongside other children.

Clay work exercises small hand movements; climbing, digging and balancing develop larger movements. Specialist teachers introduce music, French, PE and forest school, linking lessons to seasonal themes and celebrations. These give children different ways to explore ideas alongside their classroom activities.

Forest school follows children’s interests, with specialist leaders using themes such as seasonal change, foraging and hibernation. Making dens and spotting bugs turn the grounds into a place for practical investigation. The emphasis is on taking part and exploring.

The ISI inspection of 27 to 29 February 2024 found effective early years teaching that supported learning and confidence. In February 2024, children explored natural objects using magnifying pots and practised comparison vocabulary. Topic activities also gave them reasons to talk and work together, making communication part of the activity itself.

Knowing the individual child matters here. In February 2024, early years staff understood children’s interests and needs in detail, and the curriculum was adjusted accordingly. Praise and encouragement to talk about feelings helped children build social skills. Staff collaboration supported their safety and wellbeing.

Meals are prepared on the school premises. The school menu rotates over three weeks, with daily choices including soup, jacket potatoes, fruit and hot dishes. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice, so families should communicate these before meals begin.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Contact the Admissions Team to confirm what existing nursery families must do for Reception entry. The school’s admissions route includes a registration form.

Familiarity is a different matter. Pre-school children join Reception children for weekly forest activities, sports days and the annual EYFS Christmas Concert. These shared experiences create opportunities to know children and adults beyond their own class. They are transition experiences, not an admissions entitlement.

Three sessions give families distinct options: All Day runs from 08:00 to 16:00, Morning from 08:00 to 13:00, and Afternoon from 13:00 to 16:00. Choose the session around the collection time your family can manage.

Boundary Oak participates in the Early Years Entitlement (EYE) Scheme. Eligible families receive EYE-funded session hours free of charge; parent-funded sessions are charged separately. Contact the Admissions Team for current charges.

Visits can be booked using the visit form and take place Monday to Friday during school hours. Allow around 90 minutes, including a tour with the Admissions Team and time with the headteacher. This gives families an opportunity to see the learning spaces and discuss the pre-school day.