Nash Mills Church of England Primary School Nursery Review

Play, conversation and learning to get along give Nash Mills’ nursery its character. Within this Church of England primary school on Belswains Lane in Hemel Hempstead, the early years curriculum emphasises communication and social development, with extended time for play and exploration. The nursery admits children aged three for a September start.

In November 2022, Ofsted graded the school’s early years provision Good. That judgement covers early years within the school, rather than a separately inspected nursery.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides the curriculum framework. Here, the school gives particular weight to children expressing themselves, understanding others and working together. In parent terms, learning to explain an idea and manage a disagreement matters alongside early reading. Planning draws on Development Matters 2021 and Birth to 5, with children’s home experiences and previous learning taken into account.

Play has time to develop. The school aims to follow children’s ideas and interests, allowing longer periods of exploration and thinking. Its early years ambitions include recognising and writing a name, communicating through performance or music, and becoming more independent with personal care. These connect learning with things children can use in everyday life.

In November 2022, children enjoyed building activities and imaginative play in an orderly, engaging learning environment. Most children achieved well. There was also a clear weakness: adults sometimes missed chances to deepen understanding through questions and new vocabulary, leaving some children with only a limited grasp of an activity. The improvement required was more consistent questioning and teaching that develops language. For parents, adult conversation during play is an important point to consider.

Children adapted comfortably to early years routines in November 2022. That is useful reassurance about settling into the day, while the curriculum’s emphasis on working with parents and recognising learning at home gives families a role in the educational partnership.

For children staying over lunchtime, families can send a packed lunch or purchase a cooked dinner. Herts Catering Ltd prepares school meals, with vegetarian choices and a salad bar. Medical menus require registration, professional medical evidence and a photograph; cultural or religious menu choices also require registration and a photograph. Families with dietary needs therefore have a specific process to complete.

At school level, the SENCO works full-time, with Wednesdays and Thursdays allocated as focused SENCO days. Parents concerned about support can speak first with the class teacher or Inclusion Coordinator. This provides a clear starting point for discussing a nursery child’s needs.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Every family must make a separate application, including families whose children already attend the nursery. Applications go through the Hertfordshire Admissions system, so choosing this nursery should not replace planning for the next admissions stage and meeting its deadline.

Keep the two decisions separate: whether the nursery day suits your child, and which Reception schools to apply for.

For the September 2026 intake, the morning option provided 15 hours from 8.50am to 11.50am. Working families receiving 30-hours government funding could choose 8.50am to 2.50pm, with a charged extension to 3.15pm. Attendance followed a Monday-to-Friday pattern. This is a five-day arrangement to weigh against family working hours. Ask the school for current charges for the extension and cooked lunches.

Nursery clothing consists of school sweatshirts with leggings or joggers in school colours. Clothing should carry the child’s name. For enquiries, contact the school office on 01442 252972 or email admin@nashmills.herts.sch.uk; the office also handles requests to visit.