Starbeck Primary Academy Nursery Review

Stories become role play in Starbeck’s early years, with children retelling favourite tales and using them as starting points for imaginative activity. That gives this school nursery a clear emphasis on talk and independence. It belongs to Starbeck Primary Academy on High Street in Starbeck, Harrogate, and forms part of the school’s Early Years Foundation Stage provision.

At the Ofsted inspection on 19 and 20 March 2024, early years provision was graded Good. This is an early years judgement within the school inspection. Children were developing independence and communication skills, with staff helping them prepare for their next stage of education.

The Early Years Foundation Stage, or EYFS, is the curriculum for the nursery’s youngest learners. Starbeck follows Development Matters guidance, with learning organised around topics and themes. The school aims to develop confidence, empathy, social skills and the ability to manage feelings alongside learning. For parents, that means the nursery’s educational purpose includes how children express themselves and relate to others.

Storytelling gives that purpose a concrete form. In March 2024, children in the early years used familiar stories in imaginative play and enjoyed retelling them. Speaking about a story and acting it out give children ways to put language to work, rather than simply listen.

Learning also extends beyond the classroom. Starbeck gives all children opportunities to learn outside, alongside class activities. This connects the nursery to a school approach in which learning is intended to include experiences beyond indoor teaching.

A nursery leader is part of the staffing structure. For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, the school’s approach includes adapting or supporting the curriculum to suit their needs. Families can contact the SENCo through the school office, providing a direct route for discussing additional support.

Communication about learning includes parents’ evenings, children’s targets and an annual report. Teachers and teaching assistants monitor progress to inform subsequent planning, so these conversations sit alongside ongoing assessment. The school also aims to discuss concerns about a child with parents, while retaining the option to contact social care or police without parental knowledge in exceptional child protection circumstances.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through North Yorkshire Council’s school admissions process, using a preference form. School admission requires local authority authorisation. Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as two separate decisions.

Transition support has a different purpose from admission. Starbeck holds meetings for changes of class and other stages of transition, and staff pass on information about children’s progress and development. These arrangements help the next teaching team understand a child’s learning; they do not secure a place.

Morning nursery sessions run from 08:50 to 11:45; afternoon sessions run from 12:15 to 15:15. These are distinct session windows, giving families specific start and finish times around which to organise their day.

To apply for nursery, contact the school for an application pack. Visits can be arranged by calling 01423 884780 or emailing admin@starbeck.nsat.org.uk. A visit gives families an opportunity to look around before making their nursery choice.