Brotherton and Byram Community Primary Academy Nursery

Conversation gives this nursery its character. In October 2023, children in the early years listened to one another, talked readily and explained their activities to adults, who used those exchanges to build language. Brotherton and Byram Community Primary Academy’s nursery caters for three- and four-year-olds within the school.

Learning includes talking about what children have done, rather than simply completing an activity. In October 2023, early years children were becoming more independent and took pleasure in sharing their achievements. Adults extended their vocabulary through these conversations. For parents, that connects everyday activity with learning to express ideas.

The early years curriculum engaged children’s interests through deliberately chosen activities. Children sustained their attention and treated one another considerately. These findings describe the early years provision collectively; they give a picture of participation and social learning rather than a separate nursery grade.

Across the school’s classrooms, visual supports and spaces with fewer distractions sit alongside practical, sensory learning. Movement breaks, noise reducing headphones and fiddle toys are among the adjustments used. These give children different ways to participate when sitting still or coping with noise is difficult.

Emotional language starts early here. In October 2023, early years children could manage their feelings and showed consideration for others. Daily check-ins form part of the school’s Restorative Practice Approach, giving feelings a place in the day alongside learning.

For additional needs, the class teacher is the first contact for parents. Teachers work with the special educational needs coordinator (SENDCO) to assess needs, plan support, put it into practice and review its effect. Children receiving SEND support have a Learning Plan developed with families, children and professionals, then updated through the year. This gives parents a role in shaping support, rather than merely receiving decisions.

The Hub provides a quiet space for sensory support, and families can meet the support team there. An accessible toilet and wheelchair access are school facilities relevant to children with mobility needs. Specialist help can involve speech and language therapists or the Selby SEND Hub.

Regular intimate care requires a personal care plan and parental consent. Children staying for a full day bring a packed lunch, so lunch preparation remains part of the family’s routine.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place and gives no admissions priority for September 2027 entry. Families must make a separate Reception application through their home local authority, including when they live outside North Yorkshire.

For September 2027 entry, applications open on 12 October 2026 and the closing date is 15 January 2027. North Yorkshire families can apply online through the council’s school admissions service. Keep this application separate from nursery session arrangements: accepting a nursery place does not complete the next step.

Morning sessions run Monday to Friday, 8:45am to 11:45am; afternoon sessions run from 12:15pm to 3:15pm. Full-day attendance is also catered for. Session requests cannot always be met, so the chosen pattern matters when planning childcare.

The 15 hours of free weekly provision can begin in the term after a child’s third birthday, with terms starting in September, January and April. The school accepts the Government’s 30 hour code for up to 15 additional free hours.

Apply to the school office for a nursery place. Families can also arrange a school visit through the office by appointment.