Whitnash Nursery School: the nursery day

Hatching chicks, growing food and investigating a curiosity cube give Whitnash Nursery School a distinctive character. These were among the learning experiences seen in March 2023: practical starting points for children to ask questions and explore.

On Nursery Lane in Leamington Spa, the provision combines an integrated Nurture Nursery for two- to three-year-olds with the main Nursery Class, which admits children in the term following their third birthday. Younger children therefore have provision specifically designed for their age, rather than simply joining the older group.

Creativity had a regular place in the nursery week in March 2023. A resident artist and a teacher specialising in music and movement worked with children weekly, helping them develop the confidence to express ideas. Visiting musicians, puppet performances and a farmer bringing animals added different ways to encounter the wider world. Police officers and health visitors also contributed to that learning.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) shapes the curriculum. For parents, that means learning through conversation, movement, exploration and relationships, with activities planned around children's development. Whitnash describes its approach as child-centred; previous themes have included Growth, Festivals and Patterns. Its stated principles emphasise investigating materials, exchanging ideas and asking questions, so children's interests help shape what happens next.

In March 2023, adults used books and sustained conversations to develop vocabulary and listening. Children practised numbers with an adult and chose books to enjoy with friends. Climbing equipment gave them opportunities to develop balance and coordination. Within the Nurture Nursery, specialist teachers plan both the inside and outside spaces. The nursery aims to support purposeful play and first-hand experiences.

Settling begins before the first nursery session. A home visit gives the child and family time with their Colour Group Leader, followed by a Stay and Play Session with a parent present. Another short session can include an accompanying adult if needed. Attendance then builds through discussion with the group leader, taking account of the child's needs and, where applicable, parental work commitments. Families should allow time for this gradual start.

Communication includes a noticeboard in the entrance hall and a monthly newsletter. At Lunch Club, children bring a cold packed lunch that follows the No Nuts guidance; refrigerators keep lunches chilled, while milk and water are supplied. Staff eat alongside children, who transfer food onto plates, making lunch another opportunity to practise independence.

Ofsted found safeguarding effective on 8 March 2023. Staff recognised children needing early help and acted on concerns with other agencies. Home visits, parental discussions and collaboration with professionals, including a child psychotherapist, helped identify individual needs. Adults adapted learning and intervened when children fell behind, including children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Attendance here does not guarantee a Reception place. Nursery and Reception admissions are separate: families must apply again through the normal Reception admissions process by its deadline.

Preparation for the next school was a strength in March 2023, with children developing confidence, independence and resilience. That preparation is distinct from entitlement to a place.

The main nursery's arrangements introduced in September 2025 provide 15 hours through five mornings or five afternoons. Morning sessions run from 9am to noon; afternoons run from noon to 3pm. Full days run from 9am to 3pm. For working or studying families, flexible places can combine two full days with one morning or afternoon, subject to availability.

Eligible working parents can access a limited number of 30-hour places, also subject to availability, operating Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm. Additional sessions may be purchased when space permits; ask the school for current charges. The Nurture Nursery offers eligible children funded 2help places, with morning attendance and additional lunchtime provision supporting the 15-hour entitlement.

Visits can be arranged by calling 01926 335312, and application forms can be returned by email to admin1003@welearn365.com. Practical, comfortable clothes should be labelled and easy for children to manage themselves. If somebody else will collect your child, permission must be given in person or by telephone. Parents with competing school collection times can discuss early collection arrangements.