Oasis Academy Nunsthorpe Nursery Review

Snack time doubles as a lesson in listening, and learning challenges give children something to work out together. These are the clearest features of early years at Oasis Academy Nunsthorpe, the school’s nursery setting on Sutcliffe Avenue in Grimsby. The emphasis is on conversation, participation and growing independence.

In May 2026, Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision to meet the Expected standard. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating. Children took an active interest in their learning and enjoyed showing adults their achievements.

The early years foundation stage (EYFS) here brings together language development, shared play and problem solving. Adults extend children’s vocabulary through conversation, helping them frame questions and explore ideas. Talking is part of learning, rather than simply an instruction before an activity.

Regular learning challenges are built into the provision with a clear purpose. Children tackle problems alongside other children, practising cooperation as well as thinking for themselves. In May 2026, children played successfully together and showed pride in what they had accomplished. These experiences help build the confidence to attempt a task and explain the result.

Established routines give the day a predictable shape. Snack time creates opportunities to hear someone else’s idea, wait for a turn and contribute to a conversation. The learning environment encouraged children to take part, while adults supported those facing barriers so they could communicate and join activities.

Stay and Play sessions introduce children starting nursery to the early years setting. This gives families a practical first step towards familiarity before their child starts. For new children with SEND, parents can meet the SENDCo during the transition process, and information from previous settings and outside professionals helps staff plan support.

Individual Learning Plans record the needs, targets and support of children on the school’s SEND register. Parents help shape these plans, which are reviewed each term. Support therefore has specific goals and a regular opportunity for families to discuss what needs adjusting.

The school building has one storey and wheelchair access. Individual intimate care plans are used where needed, making personal care part of planned support. In the early years, adults help children overcome difficulties with communication and participation so they can learn alongside their peers.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through North East Lincolnshire Council, using the Common Application Form for September entry and following the normal application timetable.

Reception priority. For the 2025-2026 admissions cycle, attending a nursery on a school site gave no priority for that school. Families should treat nursery attendance and the Reception application as separate decisions.

Transition support is a different matter. For children with SEND, moves between classes are planned with families and may include extra classroom visits, meetings with new staff or a Social Story using photographs. These arrangements help children understand a change; they do not secure admission.

The academy is on Sutcliffe Avenue, Grimsby, DN33 1AW. Initial nursery enquiries can be made through the school on 01472 310013 or at info@oasisnunsthorpe.org.

For parents concerned about additional needs, the class teacher is the first contact. Further discussion can involve the SENDCo, giving families a route from an initial concern to planning support.