New Park Primary Academy Nursery

Daily outdoor play and children choosing their own activities give Nidd Class its character. This is New Park Primary Academy’s nursery for three-year-olds, on Skipton Road in Harrogate, within the school’s early years provision. Its classroom has access to an outdoor area, so learning can extend beyond the indoor activity spaces throughout the year.

Two session options shape the day: morning or afternoon. For families choosing an introduction to school, the emphasis is on play, developing independence and taking part in activities guided by adults.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines children’s individual development, relationships and the spaces they learn in. In practice, children choose activities indoors and outside, while adults also organise play with a learning purpose. Provision changes with children’s interests and needs over the academic year, giving their own ideas a place in what happens next.

Finding equipment for themselves is part of the routine. That gives children practice in organising their play rather than waiting for an adult to supply everything. Outdoor learning happens daily and across the seasons; planting and caring for trees and hedges also give children a role in looking after their surroundings.

In February 2024, Ofsted found that early years adults encouraged conversation through questions, with songs and stories supporting language and nursery skittles helping children count and identify numbers up to five. This is a concrete picture of learning through play: a familiar game becomes a chance to practise number skills.

Separate parent-and-child Forest School sessions take place on the school field during term time. Den making, campfire marshmallows, games and singing give families activities to share. These sessions are led by a qualified teacher who is also a Forest School practitioner.

In February 2024, adults in early years formed warm relationships and helped children develop independence and confidence. The everyday approach includes encouragement and praise, alongside partnership with families, linking children’s experiences at home and in nursery.

Where special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) have been identified before a child starts, the school works with people who already know them to plan for their needs. Support can include pictures and simpler language for children with communication needs. Parents can discuss concerns with their child’s teacher or the SEND coordinator, giving families a clear route into planning support. Staff with paediatric first aid training are part of the school team.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through North Yorkshire’s coordinated school admissions scheme. Applications usually run from mid-October to mid-January; check the council’s precise dates for the relevant intake and apply by its deadline.

For children with SEND, transitions can be personalised. Information passes to new teachers, and children have opportunities to meet them and try their new classrooms. These arrangements support familiarity; they are separate from the application for a place.

Morning nursery runs from 8.45am to 11.45am; the afternoon option is 12.15pm to 3.15pm. These session times matter when arranging the rest of the family’s day.

Request a nursery application pack directly from the school. Visits can be arranged by telephone or email: 01423 503011 or admin@newpark.nsat.org.uk.

The separate Forest School sessions run on Wednesdays, 9.30am to 10.30am, during term time. Families can request one session or a six-week block by emailing the school office with their chosen date; the office confirms a place or offers another date if that session is full.