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Nursery at Grantham Preparatory International School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Waterproof suits, weekly Spanish and books borrowed from the school library give this nursery a recognisable character: play-based early learning with access to the wider school's teaching and spaces. Nursery starts at three, alongside Pre-School within the foundation department at Grantham Preparatory International School on Gorse Lane.
In March 2026, ISI found that early-years children settled confidently and made good progress through activities adapted to their individual needs. The emphasis was on conversation, relationships and physical development, giving younger children foundations for learning rather than simply a head start on formal lessons.
The core day runs from 8.50am to 3.10pm. A morning break falls between 10.30am and 11am, lunch occupies noon to 1pm, and an afternoon break runs from 2pm to 2.15pm. These pauses divide the learning day into manageable stretches.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework guides learning across seven areas. In parent terms, play, communication and children's development shape the teaching, with close observation helping staff decide what each child needs next. Read, Write Inc. begins in Early Years through Set 1 sounds, role play, sound-box activities and initial letter formation. Books and stories support language development; questions encourage children to explain their thinking. Number work explores quantities and comparisons.
Outdoor areas remain accessible through open doors, and supplied waterproof, warm all-in-one suits support exploration in wet weather. Children also develop hand control through dough modelling and threading, while bikes, climbing and running build larger movements. Movement has planned teaching time too: a weekly specialist PE lesson sits alongside another led by early-years staff.
Weekly visits take children to the library and ICT suite, with a library book available to borrow. Specialist music lessons explore songs, rhythm and beats; weekly Spanish introduces animal names, colours, numbers and everyday phrases. Trips include Great Wood and Belton House, extending learning beyond the school site.
A key person provides a consistent link between home and nursery. Parents receive a weekly EYFS newsletter and can view their child's electronic learning journey, which records interests and development. Teachers also work with parents to understand learning outside school, so communication reaches beyond classroom observations.
Settling is supported by relationships with staff who help children feel comfortable expressing themselves. Children practise identifying feelings and choosing ways to calm down, including seeking an adult's help. Puppets and role play introduce kindness and turn-taking, giving children concrete ways to manage friendships. These early-years practices were evident in March 2026.
All EYFS staff hold paediatric first aid qualifications. Suitable early-years staffing ratios extend to eating and drinking. Good Lookin Cookin supplies hot lunches, included in school fees; families provide fruit and a drink for morning break. Medical requirements involving special equipment or treatment must be communicated in writing.
Nursery and Pre-School are closely connected with the Reception class, providing continuity between classes. Familiarity can help the change feel less abrupt. It is a transition arrangement, not an admissions entitlement.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Confirm Reception application arrangements and any deadline with the admissions team before making plans for the move.
Full-time and part-time places are offered. Early Years Entitlement through Lincolnshire County Council applies from the term following a child's third birthday until the term after their fifth birthday. Before-school and after-school care carry additional charges; contact the school for current charges.
Wraparound care spans 7.30am to 8.50am and 3.10pm to 6pm. Crèche places require booking through the school office and are limited, so these sessions need planning alongside the core day. Early-years drop-off and collection use the side entrance to the Reception classroom; staff must know who is authorised to collect each child.
Cool Cats Clothing supplies uniform, and school footwear must be sensible black shoes. To arrange a personal tour, contact the admissions team on 01476 593293 or email contact.grantham@iesmail.com. Visits can also be requested through an online booking form.
Nursery starts at three years old, with Pre-School closely linked to the Reception class.
The early-years day runs from 8.50am to 3.10pm. Wraparound care is available from 7.30am to 8.50am and from 3.10pm to 6pm; crèche places must be booked through the school office.
A key person links home and nursery. Parents receive a weekly EYFS newsletter and can access their child's electronic learning journey online.
Hot lunches supplied by Good Lookin Cookin are included in school fees. Families provide a drink and fruit for morning break.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Confirm Reception application arrangements and any deadline with the admissions team.
