High Leigh Primary School Nursery Review

Play and a five-morning rhythm shape the nursery offer at High Leigh Primary School in Hoddesdon. Children join its Nursery class in the term after their third birthday, with entry points in September, January and April. The school offers provision for children eligible for 15 or 30 hours, so the practical choice is between mornings and a longer day, subject to afternoon availability.

This is the school's own nursery provision. Its early-years curriculum combines structured activities with free play and hands-on exploration.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach brings together early reading and writing, number skills and learning to interact with other children. High Leigh places hands-on exploration and play alongside structured activities. The school aims to develop curiosity and confidence as children learn.

The school describes its classroom resources as encouraging imagination and collaboration, with the aim of helping children explore materials and ideas together. Across the school, OPAL (outdoor play and learning) also emphasises exploration outside. Outdoor shelter is limited, with an OPAL indoor classroom providing another space. Waterproof clothing and wellington boots are part of the school's practical preparation for play in wet weather.

At the December 2024 inspection, Ofsted judged early years Good. Children in early years practised familiar words and new sounds, while staff support for curriculum changes was effective in this phase. These are early-years findings covering the school's provision, rather than a separate nursery rating.

In December 2024, children in early years settled successfully, developed their listening and sustained attention to learning. Those findings matter for a child beginning group education: settling involves becoming comfortable with adults and joining the activities around them.

The staffing structure includes a Nursery class teacher and an Early Years Leader. Wider school support includes a SENDCo and a Family Support Worker, alongside designated safeguarding roles. These give families identifiable roles for discussing additional needs or family concerns.

At the December 2024 school inspection, inspectors considered the school's response to serious child protection allegations investigated by the appropriate authorities. They judged the school's safeguarding arrangements effective.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately through the normal Reception admissions route. For Hertfordshire residents, that means a Hertfordshire County Council application.

For the September 2026 intake, applications opened on 1 November 2025 and closed on 15 January 2026. That deadline has passed. Nursery enrolment and the Reception application are separate decisions, so families should plan for the relevant Reception admissions cycle alongside their child's nursery year.

For children eligible for 15 hours, the pattern is five mornings each week, from 8.45am to 11.45am. Children eligible for 30 hours can also attend afternoon sessions from 11.45am to 3.00pm, subject to availability. The afternoon condition matters when planning a longer day.

Breakfast and After School Club are available to Nursery children, with separate booking and payment. Contact the school for current charges. Families seeking 30-hour provision must obtain the eligibility code within the relevant time frame before their child's start date.

To organise a nursery visit, call 01992 465739 or email admin@highleigh.herts.sch.uk. Nursery applications go directly to the school office by email or in person. Applications remain open throughout the year, with places allocated subject to availability.