East Ravendale CofE Primary School Academy Nursery Review

Eggs in an incubator, potato plants hiding minibeasts and books that lead into practical discovery: these are some of the learning experiences in Hedgehogs, East Ravendale’s mixed nursery and Reception class. Children can join from age three. The nursery sits within the Church of England primary school, with younger children sharing their class with the next age group.

Ofsted judged early years provision Good at the September 2023 inspection. Learning experiences were shaped around children’s next steps, although curriculum planning across early years and Year 1 needed closer coordination. That qualification matters alongside the grade.

Play connects the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning here. Children develop language, early English and maths alongside physical skills, creativity, understanding of the world and social development; RE also forms part of their learning. For parents, that means the nursery day reaches beyond early reading and writing to include talking, exploring and learning to cooperate.

Books give activities a focus. A different book anchors learning each week, with daily reading for enjoyment and Read Write Inc. used for phonics. Mark making begins in Hedgehogs: squiggle activities develop core strength, while fine motor practice and handwriting patterns lead towards forming letters. Reading packs include, when children are ready, sound books, a sharing book and Read Write Inc. materials matched to their working level. Home reading can therefore connect with what a child is learning in class.

Outdoor exploration brings those ideas into practical activity. During a summer learning sequence, children investigated frog habitats with Growing Frogs, examined eggs and sketched them, and cared for eggs supplied by Rand Farm in an incubator. They later observed chicks and built runs for them. Potato plants also prompted investigation of minibeast habitats. These are concrete examples of stories leading into observation and hands-on discovery. Nursery children also take part in a PE lesson each week.

The September 2023 early years findings included a concern that some learning was insufficiently sequenced to prepare children for Year 1. Children could consequently struggle to extend their existing understanding as they moved through school.

Joining is staggered across the school year. The school says this helps preschool children become familiar with its routines and settle readily. Within early years, children practise recognising feelings, considering other people’s emotions, sharing and playing together. Care and learning overlap in these everyday interactions.

For additional needs, parents can contact the SEND coordinator through the office. The school’s pastoral support includes an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA), individual or group work and Lego Therapy. Class staff share concerns with the safeguarding and pastoral lead, involving families and outside agencies where needed. This gives parents a route for discussing worries about their child.

School meals are supplied by Caterlink and freshly prepared on site. Hot and cold options sit alongside daily bread, salad and fruit; families view menus and book through MCAS.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through North East Lincolnshire Council’s school-place portal by the normal Reception deadline.

Sharing Hedgehogs with Reception children gives nursery children experience of the same class setting before that next stage. That classroom continuity is distinct from admission: being familiar with the school does not secure a place.

Eligible families can take up FS1 places using the 30 hour government funding. Eligibility remains a condition of that offer.

Nursery applications go directly to the school administration team. Call 01472 825999 or email enquiries@eastravendale.laat.co.uk. Prospective families can also arrange a school visit through the office, giving them an opportunity to see the setting before applying.

School uniform includes a navy logo jumper or cardigan, a blue polo shirt and grey or black bottoms. Pre-loved uniform is available through staff, providing another way to obtain school clothing.