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Nursery at Leiston 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Playdough, daily counting and stories taken home give Dragonfly Class its character: this is Leiston Primary School's own nursery, with learning built around conversation, practical activity and children's choices. It sits within the school on King George's Avenue in Leiston. Children work with the nursery team through both play they initiate and activities led by adults.
In the Ofsted inspection of 3 and 4 June 2025, early years provision was judged Good. That judgement covers the school's early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery. The early years curriculum was carefully organised, with staff helping children become more independent and learn how to listen and take turns.
Daily counting gives children regular practice with numbers. Beyond that, children combine activities guided by adults with their own play. Continuous provision means that learning resources and activities support exploration, while adults join children to extend their vocabulary and thinking. Playdough, construction, cutting and painting provide practice in coordinating hands and eyes before formal writing.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) connects learning about language, movement and relationships with books, mathematics, creativity and discovering the world. Here, those areas meet in practical experiences. Children can choose their play, while adults also prepare activities linked to a theme. The outdoor area is freely accessible, so suitable clothes matter throughout the year.
The spring 2026 programme included Phase 1 Phonics through sounds made with the body, rhyme, voices and instruments. Its mathematics goals included recognising small groups of objects, sorting by features and extending patterns. Bikes, scooters and climbing equipment featured in movement goals; props, costumes and percussion instruments supported storytelling and creative work. These are concrete ways to practise listening, coordination and expressing ideas.
Sharing Books go home each week for children to enjoy with their grown-ups. Returning the book allows another story to follow, connecting nursery learning with a manageable activity at home.
A class teacher works alongside an early years practitioner and another team member, with children spending time with each through daily activities. In June 2025, early years staff identified children needing additional help promptly and responded precisely. Support was part of the learning day.
The autumn 2025 programme began with two weeks devoted to settling in. Its self-care goals included managing toileting, washing hands before eating and seeking help with lunch containers. Independence is approached through small, practical steps rather than simply expecting children to manage alone.
Lunch can be a packed meal or a purchased school meal during the charged lunchtime session. This gives families a choice of food arrangements between the morning and afternoon sessions. For children needing additional support, the school's SEND arrangements include liaison with families and specialist services such as Speech and Language Therapists, CISS and SENDAT outreach.
Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet its deadline; first school places are allocated by the local authority. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions.
Familiarity is a different matter. Nursery children make regular visits to Reception classrooms during the summer term, getting to know the spaces and staff. The wider transition programme includes stay and play, a meeting for parents and transition days. These experiences help children prepare for change; they do not secure admission.
Morning sessions run from 8:30 to 11:30, with afternoons from 12:30 to 3:30. Each lasts three hours. The lunchtime session runs from 11:30 to 12:30 and carries an additional charge. Contact the school for current lunch charges.
Bring a labelled water bottle, name belongings and dress children for outdoor play, including winter coats or summer hats. Toys should stay at home. Nursery enquiries can go to the school office on 01728 830745 or lei.admin@eastmat.org. School visits can also be arranged through the office, giving families an opportunity to discuss the provision before choosing it.
Morning sessions are 8:30 to 11:30 and afternoon sessions are 12:30 to 3:30. A charged lunch session runs between 11:30 and 12:30.
Yes. During the charged lunch session, children can bring a packed lunch or have a purchased school meal. Contact the school for current charges.
Children combine play they choose with activities guided by adults. Daily counting, playdough, painting, construction and cutting are among the learning experiences.
No. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions process. First school places are allocated by the local authority.
Regular summer-term visits introduce nursery children to Reception classrooms and staff. The transition programme also includes stay and play sessions, a parents meeting and transition days.
