George Street Primary School Nursery Review

Climbing, digging and conversation give George Street’s early years provision its character: physical activity and language development work together, with practical tasks building the strength children need for writing. The nursery belongs to George Street Primary School in Hemel Hempstead’s Old Town, where children start from age three.

Early years met the Expected standard in the Ofsted judgement published on 17 March 2026. This covers the school’s early years provision, rather than giving the nursery a separate rating. The useful detail for parents is the emphasis on communication, movement and cooperation with home.

A 9am start gives families a choice between collection at midday and staying until 3pm. That makes the morning a distinct option, while children staying for the afternoon have a longer nursery day.

The curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Here, its practical meaning includes developing speech through play, learning familiar routines and gaining physical control. Across the school, books are central to curriculum planning, and the grounds provide space for practical learning outdoors.

Early years findings published on 17 March 2026 describe digging and climbing activities selected in response to children needing more help with movement. These tasks develop coordination and balance while strengthening arms, wrists and fingers. Preparation for writing starts with the body.

Adults also introduce vocabulary during activities and play. Children generally develop enough language to explain their thinking, understand instructions and make sense of stories. Familiar routines help them move around the early years environment confidently; stories are also used to teach behaviour when children need extra guidance.

Nursery staffing includes teachers, an early years practitioner and a SEND learning support assistant. This combines teaching and practical support within the nursery team. Families can also contact the school’s special educational needs coordinator through Senco@georgestreet.herts.sch.uk.

Early years findings published on 17 March 2026 describe staff and parents working together to understand individual children’s needs. Families received information about both learning and wellbeing, giving home and nursery a shared basis for supporting each child.

Breakfast Club provides breakfast choices followed by games indoors and outside. For families using that provision, food and activity form part of the start to the day. School catering is provided by Cleverchef.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Parents must make a separate application through Hertfordshire County Council and meet the deadline for their child’s entry year. For the 2026 intake, the application deadline was 15 January 2026; that cycle is now past.

Nursery attendance gives no priority under the school’s admission rules. After admission for children whose EHC plan names the school, the criteria cover looked-after children, medical or social circumstances, siblings, the nearest school and distance. Families should therefore treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions.

Nursery opening hours run Monday to Friday. Staying from 9am until 3pm provides 30 hours each week. Parents who do not qualify for a 30-hour code can pay for extra sessions; contact the school for current charges.

Breakfast Club starts at 7.40am, and the school also offers after-school provision. To arrange a visit, call the office on 01442 255638. Nursery enquiries can also go to admin@georgestreet.herts.sch.uk.