York Road Nursery School: learning through real experiences

In July 2023, den-building, forest school and encounters with firefighters gave York Road Nursery School its practical character. This nursery school in Hitchin caters for children aged 2 to 5. The provision is the school itself; in July 2023, Yorkies Day Care shared its site but was inspected separately. Families should distinguish the nursery education from that neighbouring childcare provision.

In July 2023, the school had 120 children on roll. That is a dated enrolment figure, rather than a measure of places currently offered. In July 2023, children were becoming assured speakers and concentrating on activities, with learning shaped around their interests and developmental needs.

Real experiences gave learning a purpose in July 2023. The curriculum covered the expected early-years learning areas through children's interests and practical encounters. Language, social development and understanding the world developed through activities children could join in with.

In July 2023, forest school provided opportunities to investigate nature. Outdoors, children collaborated on dens and obstacle courses, negotiating ideas and sharing equipment as they built. These activities exercised problem-solving and cooperation together. Visits from firefighters and bee-keepers connected children's learning with people and work beyond the nursery.

Books and conversation also featured strongly in July 2023. Children heard stories, explored sounds in their surroundings and described objects during circle time. Adults extended discussion and adjusted activities after checking children's understanding. This supported substantial progress in learning and development, while giving children foundations for later reading and phonics.

At the July 2023 inspection, support began before children started. Communication with families and introductory play dates helped staff understand individual needs early. These visits gave teachers an opportunity to assess needs and children a chance to become familiar with the setting.

In July 2023, support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) included sensory activities, music and therapy. Adults adapted learning so children could participate in the curriculum; children with SEND were making exceptional progress. Staff also helped children recognise feelings and resolve disagreements, building the skills needed to share play with others.

Safeguarding was effective in July 2023. Staff training, recruitment checks and follow-up of concerns supported this, alongside work with the family centre when children needed additional protection. Wraparound care has a tea menu and allergen information covering breakfast and tea, giving families using those sessions practical information about food.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process, rather than treating their nursery place as an allocation for primary school.

Preparation for primary school is a different matter. At the July 2023 inspection, learning to follow routines, cooperate and express feelings gave children useful foundations for that move. These developmental benefits should be considered separately from the question of admission.

The published 15-hour funded morning offer runs from 9.00am to 12pm, Monday to Friday, during term time, for children whose third birthday falls between 1 September 2024 and 31 August 2025. Families should confirm the applicable funded session arrangements for their child. The additional pattern runs from noon to 3.30pm Monday to Thursday, finishing at 1pm on Friday. This can use the remaining 15 hours of a 30-hour entitlement if those hours are not used with another childcare provider.

Eligibility for the extended entitlement requires an online check and a code supplied to the school once the nursery place is finalised. Parents must update their circumstances and inform the school of any changes. Families needing care beyond these session times apply for wraparound on the same application form.

Early Years Pupil Premium provides additional government funding to support children from disadvantaged backgrounds. It gives settings extra resources for eligible children's learning, development and care.

In-year places depend on availability. Applications go to admissions@yorkroad.herts.sch.uk with the child's name, birth date, address and a contact number. General enquiries go to admin@yorkroad.herts.sch.uk or 01462 459127.