Craven Primary Academy Nursery

Early years leadership and special educational needs coordination sit in the same role at Craven Primary Academy. That gives families a shared point of contact for early learning and additional support. The nursery is the academy’s Foundation One provision, on Newbridge Road in Hull.

Planned activities and familiar routines shape the early years experience. At the inspection on 16 and 17 November 2022, children took part in carefully organised activities, paid attention to adults and followed established routines. These are useful foundations for joining in with learning alongside other children.

At the November 2022 inspection, curriculum ambition extended to early years. Adults’ conversations with children also showed an emphasis on language and vocabulary, making everyday exchanges part of learning. For parents, the emphasis is on what children learn through their activities and interactions, as well as becoming comfortable with the rhythm of a school setting.

Additional support starts with the class teacher and the special educational needs coordinator (SENCO). Teachers adjust resources and learning tasks to individual needs, while the SENCO coordinates support. Speech and Language Therapy, Northcott Autism Outreach and the Integrated Physical and Sensory Service (IPASS) are among the specialist services that may become involved. Parents discuss proposed referrals and give permission before these proceed.

For children starting with identified SEND, preparation includes gathering information from families and relevant professionals before the start date. A phased transition may be arranged. New pupils and their parents can become familiar with the site and meet staff beforehand, with arrangements adapted where a bespoke transition applies. Follow-up includes a review after the first six weeks, bringing parents, the teacher and child into the discussion about whether support meets their needs.

Early years children with an Education, Health and Care Plan have it reviewed every six months. This gives families a recurring opportunity to revisit provision as their child develops. Wide doorways and few raised entrances support physical access around the school.

Meals have menus that change each term. Drinking water is freely accessible, and children are encouraged to use reusable bottles. Personal care must be provided by appropriately trained employees, who explain the task to the child and protect their privacy. These requirements put communication and dignity alongside practical help.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Hull City Council’s normal admissions process and meet the relevant deadline.

The proposed arrangements for 2027/28 include nursery attendance as the fifth oversubscription criterion, conditional on attending Foundation One for at least the three terms before Reception admission. This is a conditional priority position, rather than an assured place; families should keep the separate application firmly in view.

Nursery uniform combines grey or black trousers or a skirt with a white top and royal blue knitwear or a sweatshirt. A logo is optional. Clothing and coats should be labelled to help keep belongings identifiable.

Contact the academy office on 01482 761323 or email info@cravenprimaryacademy.org.uk for nursery enquiries. Families with concerns about additional needs can ask to speak to the SENCO through the same office.