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Nursery at Bassenthwaite Primary 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.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 conservatory-style classroom looking towards Skiddaw gives Ducklings Nursery a distinctive base within Bassenthwaite Primary School. The nursery opened in September 2014, and children can start in the term after their third birthday. This is an introduction to school life on the school's own site, with a nursery classroom rather than a separate childcare setting elsewhere.
Early years reached the Expected standard in the Ofsted report dated 2 June 2026. That judgement covers the school's early years provision; it is not a separate nursery rating. The findings describe children gaining confidence with routines, playing together and exploring learning spaces indoors and outside.
Practical play carries early writing and number work. Within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), staff build learning progressively, starting with what children already understand and adjusting support where gaps emerge. For a parent, the emphasis is on developing language, early learning and independence together, rather than treating them as separate tasks.
Conversation is part of the teaching. Adults demonstrate how to use language, explain unfamiliar vocabulary and help children understand and try new words. Early years phonics teaching is accurate, with opportunities to apply sounds through reading and writing. White Rose Maths resources support the EYFS mathematics curriculum, while learning about the scientific world is woven into everyday activities.
The nursery's conservatory classroom provides the concrete setting for this work. Across early years, indoor and outdoor activities have a learning purpose, and the environment helps children develop the small hand movements needed for writing. Play therefore serves both social development and practical learning. Children also become familiar with routines, giving them a framework for exploring with increasing confidence.
Settling involves a partnership with families. In June 2026, early years staff worked with parents and carers to help children become comfortable and supported. Adults also helped children handle emotions and learn how to play alongside others. Those everyday relationships matter as much as the first learning activities.
Support responds to individual starting points. Staff use assessment to spot gaps, provide individual help for children facing learning barriers and adapt activities so children can participate. A qualified early years teacher works in Ducklings Nursery and the infant class on a part-time basis. The school also has a SENDCO, providing a school-level role for special educational needs and disabilities.
Reception admission is separate. Attending Ducklings Nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make another application through Cumberland Council's Reception application route by the deadline for their entry year.
For September 2026 entry, the deadline was 15 January 2026. The 2026/27 oversubscription criteria did not give priority for nursery attendance. Familiarity with the school must therefore be kept separate from entitlement to a place: choosing the nursery does not reserve Reception admission.
The school offers on-site wraparound care from 8am to 5pm, which may help families planning care around the school day. An appointment can be arranged for parents and their child to see Ducklings Nursery and the main school working.
For enquiries, telephone 017687 76365 or email adminbassenthwaite@keswick.cumbria.sch.uk. Nursery applications can be made online, with a paper option obtainable from the school office. After submitting the application, families need to bring the child's birth certificate to the office as identity evidence. Parking is available outside the school.
Children are eligible from the term following their third birthday.
No. A separate Reception application is required through Cumberland Council. For the 2026/27 admissions cycle, nursery attendance did not confer oversubscription priority.
Early years reached the Expected standard in the Ofsted report dated 2 June 2026. This covers early years within the school, rather than a separately inspected nursery.
Early years staff work with parents and carers, help children understand routines and support their emotional and social development.
Yes. Contact the school to arrange an appointment for you and your child to see Ducklings Nursery and the main school at work.
