St Martin at Shouldham Nursery Review

Painting, sculpture and mathematical puzzles give the early years at St Martin at Shouldham their character. This is nursery provision run by the school on its own site, within St Martin At Shouldham Church of England Primary Academy. Children begin their learning in a school setting, with play providing the starting point.

Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Outstanding at the inspection on 3 and 4 December 2024. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Play has a deliberate learning purpose here. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum centres on learning through play, alongside the Primary Knowledge Curriculum, which begins building knowledge in early years. For parents, that means children's exploration sits within a planned sequence of learning rather than being an isolated activity.

Indoor and outdoor learning environments support this approach. Activities available for children to choose follow their interests while introducing unfamiliar ideas. Adult-directed tasks and group activities sit alongside them, giving children opportunities both to pursue an interest and to communicate with their peers. Staff use questions and observations to decide how to extend learning.

The practical examples are revealing. In December 2024, early years children investigated three-dimensional shapes through problems that prompted mathematical reasoning. Adults also used these activities to develop conversation and social skills. A shape problem therefore offered more than practice with maths: children had to explain their thinking.

Creative work gives another route into learning. Early years children explored sculpture, painting and colour, building foundations for later art. Conversation mattered too: staff developed language through detailed exchanges, helping children become confident about expressing ideas. The early years English approach prioritises spoken language, with opportunities to attempt writing during play. Extended writing waits until children are developmentally ready.

Early identification of special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is a strength of the early years provision. In December 2024, children's needs were recognised promptly and activities and support were adjusted precisely. For a child needing additional help, the significant point is that provision responds to their individual needs.

Across the school, curriculum adaptations include small-group work, extra support within lessons and adapted learning materials. Staff work with families and outside agencies on SEND provision. These arrangements give parents a basis for discussing how their child's learning will be supported.

Communication about learning also has a regular structure. Teachers send families a curriculum map at the start of each half term, electronically or on paper, so parents can follow the class's learning themes.

Reception admission is separate. Attending the nursery does not guarantee a place in the school's Reception. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process by the applicable deadline. Treat choosing a nursery place and applying for Reception as two distinct decisions.

The school is on Lynn Road in Shouldham, King's Lynn, PE33 0BU. Nursery enquiries can go through the school office on 01366 347260 or by email to office@st-martin.norfolk.sch.uk. This gives families a direct contact when considering a place.