The FMS Inspection Score is FindMySchool's proprietary analysis based on official Ofsted and ISI inspection reports. It converts ratings into a standardised 1–10 scale for fair comparison across all schools in England.
Disclaimer: The FMS Inspection Score is an independent analysis by FindMySchool. It is not endorsed by or affiliated with Ofsted or ISI. Always refer to the official Ofsted or ISI report for the full picture of a school’s inspection outcome.
Nursery at Leicester High School for Girls
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Weekly woodland learning in the Spinney gives Leicester High’s preschool a distinctive rhythm. Girls belong to the wider school from the start, joining assemblies, music lessons and performances alongside their early learning. This is a school-shaped preschool experience, with specialist teaching as well as play.
Foundation places are available from the half-term preceding a girl’s third birthday, within an Early Years Unit accepting girls from 2 years 9 months. The preschool sits within the school’s Junior Department. In September 2025, its Foundation class had 11 children; that is a dated class roll, rather than a measure of capacity. A qualified teacher works full time in Early Years, alongside practitioners and experienced early years staff.
Play and planned learning work together here. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum uses Cornerstones, with exploration and creative activities alongside structured teaching. For parents, that means learning through practical experiences while developing communication, physical skills and independence. Possible topics include Marvellous Machines and Once Upon a Time, giving activities a shared theme rather than making each discovery an isolated event.
The Spinney is woodland within the grounds, used by EYFS girls every week. Activities can involve watching birds, making dens, exploring a mud kitchen or searching for minibeasts. Waterproof suits and wellies support outdoor exploration across the year. There is room for stories outdoors too.
School life broadens the experience beyond the preschool classroom. PE involves the Lead Sports Coach, while music, assemblies and performances introduce different ways to participate. Recent EYFS experiences have included visits to Crich Transport Museum and West Lodge Farm, alongside celebrations such as Eid and Diwali. These connect themes explored in class with places and experiences beyond it.
The September 2025 ISI inspection found that early years teaching developed language through daily conversation, while tools, balancing and building helped children practise physical skills. Indoor and outdoor resources supported the curriculum, and children developed confidence and independence over time. Sharing, taking turns and talking through disagreements also formed part of their learning: social skills were practised in everyday interactions.
Settling begins before the first school day. Foundation entrants receive a teacher’s home visit before starting, and September newcomers are invited to an induction day, usually in June. Meeting staff beforehand gives families an opportunity to begin the relationship before regular attendance starts. Early Years staff also work closely with parents to support children across home and school.
Freshly cooked hot lunches are eaten in the dining hall and included in fees. Lexington Independents prepares the meals; food follows halal standards, and fruit and vegetables are available daily. Families can raise allergies or dietary requirements with the catering team, whose training includes annual allergy updates.
In September 2025, emerging needs in early years were recognised promptly and children’s learning experiences were adjusted. Teaching used SEND guidance precisely to plan support. Families can also meet the SENDCo during admissions to discuss individual needs, making that conversation part of choosing the provision.
Safeguarding oversight. Across the school, September 2025 findings included inconsistent reporting and recording of low-level concerns about adults, with further staff training recommended. Appointment-check recording errors were corrected during the inspection, as were outdated versions of policies available to parents. These are school-wide concerns relevant to families considering the preschool.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Reception applicants apply directly to this independent school through its Admissions Team or online registration form. Existing Foundation families should confirm their Reception application and assessment requirements with the Admissions Team.
Foundation and Reception entry assessments usually take place after a child turns three, using approximately two hours of play activities, followed by a parent meeting with the Junior Department head. Familiarity with school life through assemblies and shared events is useful preparation for change, but should not be confused with an admissions entitlement.
Funding for Foundation can begin in the term after a child turns three. The entitlement described is 15 hours weekly over 38 weeks for three- and four-year-olds, with some families eligible for up to 30 hours depending on income. Leicester City Council provides the funding.
Lunch is included in fees; uniform, trips and Junior Department care before or after school carry additional charges. Ask the school for current charges. EYFS PE clothing includes navy joggers, an LHS polo shirt and trainers with non-marking soles. Enquiries go to admissions@leicesterhigh.co.uk, and families can book a private tour before applying.
Foundation places are available from the half-term before her third birthday. The Early Years Unit accepts girls from 2 years 9 months.
EYFS girls use the Spinney woodland weekly. Activities may include den making, bird watching, minibeast searches and outdoor stories.
Yes. Fees include freshly prepared lunches, with Junior Department pupils eating a hot lunch in the dining hall. Food is prepared to halal standards.
Funding can start in the term after a child turns three. Three- and four-year-olds can receive 15 hours weekly for 38 weeks; some families qualify for up to 30 hours depending on income.
No. Reception applicants apply directly to the school. Existing Foundation families should confirm with the Admissions Team what application and assessment steps are required for Reception.
