St Stephen's CofE Primary School Nursery Review

Play with an adult alongside, conversation that stretches a child's thinking, and outdoor equipment that builds physical confidence: these are the defining features of early years at St Stephen's. The nursery caters for children aged two, three and four within the Church of England primary school on Hunters Chase in South Godstone.

This is a nursery class within the school, with a nursery teacher and nursery teaching assistants. In May 2026, Ofsted judged the school's early years provision to meet the Strong standard. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Learning combines purposeful play with adult involvement. Across early years, staff join children's play and ask questions that encourage them to think further and try new vocabulary. For parents, the useful distinction is that play carries teaching: an adult helps turn a child's interest into a learning opportunity.

The early years foundation stage develops children's communication, physical skills and the knowledge they need for their next stage. Indoor resources give children practice with small hand movements, while equipment outdoors develops coordination, strength and balance. Both environments have a clear developmental purpose.

Phonics begins in nursery, and Little Wandle is used across early years. This introduces work on sounds before children move on. In May 2026, the early years curriculum built knowledge and skills in a planned sequence, with staff training also strengthening support for communication and language. Conversation and physical development sit alongside the beginnings of literacy.

Calm, predictable routines help children feel secure enough to learn. In May 2026, children across early years were settled, happy and receiving very attentive care. Staff recognised difficulties affecting learning or wellbeing early and responded with support shaped around the individual child. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and disadvantaged children, made substantial progress from their starting points.

Relationships with families also supported learning at home. Nursery parents had dedicated appointment slots at the March 2026 parents' evenings, giving them time to discuss their child's development. For concerns about additional needs, parents can contact the Inclusion Leader/SENDCo; the school office can also connect families with pastoral support.

Food administration has a straightforward contact route. Twelve15 runs the school kitchen, and families should request an allergy form from the office if their child has allergies. Meal preferences can also be discussed with the office.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process.

For September 2026 entry, applications went online through Surrey Admissions, with Surrey County Council processing them; the deadline was 15 January 2026. That cycle is now past. Choosing nursery and applying for Reception remain separate decisions.

Universal funding for three- and four-year-olds covers up to 15 hours each week over 38 weeks of the year. Eligible working families may qualify for 30 hours for these ages, with eligibility reconfirmed every three months. FEET funding may also support eligible two-year-olds, starting in the funded period after their second birthday.

To enquire or arrange a visit, contact the school office at info@ststephens.surrey.sch.uk or call 01342892219. Families who cannot attend a scheduled nursery open morning can arrange another visiting time through the office.