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Nursery at Beaufront First School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A focus book gives learning its thread at Beaufront's nursery, while Balanceability brings balance bikes into the early years curriculum. This is school nursery provision in Sandhoe, Hexham, taking children from age 3. A nursery teacher also holds the Forest School lead role, connecting the team's structure with outdoor learning.
In April 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.
The nursery morning runs from 8:45 to 11:30. Learning follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), with activities linked through a focus book. For parents, that means stories connect with learning across different areas, rather than sitting apart from it. Literacy and mathematics receive specific planning each half term.
Children's interests help shape the activities. Planning can change weekly or daily, and sessions leave space for children's suggestions. A three-year cycle varies the focus texts and themes across their early years experience. The classroom planning wall lets parents see the weekly plans, making the connection between a child's interests and classroom activities easier to follow.
Balanceability adds a concrete physical element: children propel balance bikes with their feet, then practise slowing and stopping using feet and hand brakes. The course aims to develop balance, awareness of space and confidence. Creative work has daily opportunities too, with materials and tools for imaginative play, demonstrations of techniques and chances to try ideas independently.
In April 2026, early years children enjoyed joining in with stories, sounds and rhymes. Conversations with staff supported language development, and children increasingly used their learning independently while working together. Regular activities also developed the strength and control needed for writing.
Knowing children well shapes the care here. In April 2026, early years staff recognised individual needs promptly and adjusted learning for children with SEND and those facing disadvantage. Emotional resilience received explicit attention. For a child who needs additional support, the practical benefit is learning adapted around their needs.
The team includes an EYFS lead who is also SENDCO, alongside teaching assistants with EYFS support roles. The school supports families with applications for Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments.
Lunches are charged separately for nursery children. EYFS children are offered snacks in the morning and afternoon, with a voluntary contribution towards snacks and drinks. Families who prefer to supply their own consumables should tell the nursery, so their choice can be taken into account.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Northumberland County Council's procedure. The application window usually begins in October and ends the following January, with offers in April. Keep that application separate from nursery arrangements: a nursery place does not replace it.
Northumberland County Council manages school admissions. The nursery's familiar staff and curriculum should therefore be considered as part of the child's early education, rather than as a promise of admission to the school.
Funded and privately paid sessions are offered from age 3. The funding arrangement provides 15 hours, or 30 hours depending on eligibility, from the term after a child's third birthday. Additional hours are charged, as are before and after school clubs or care. Contact the school for current charges.
Session commitments need advance planning. Leaving nursery or reducing sessions requires four weeks' written notice; otherwise, charges apply in place of notice. Sickness and absence do not receive refunds. These conditions matter if family childcare needs may change.
For nursery enquiries and applications, contact admin@beaufront.northumberland.sch.uk. Visits can be arranged through the school office on 01434 602 903. The morning session's 11:30 finish is a useful starting point when planning collection and the rest of the family's day.
Beaufront takes nursery children from age 3.
The nursery morning runs from 8:45 to 11:30.
No. Families must apply separately through Northumberland County Council's procedure, which usually opens in October and closes the following January, with offers in April.
The nursery offers 15 funded hours, or 30 depending on eligibility, from the term after a child turns 3. Additional hours and lunches are charged separately. Snack contributions are voluntary, and families can tell the nursery if they wish to supply their own consumables.
Contact the school office on 01434 602 903 to arrange a visit.
