Willows Primary Academy Nursery

Stories, songs and conversation give Willows’ early years provision its character. Language receives sustained attention, with books and activities chosen to introduce children to new words. For a young child, that makes talking and listening part of learning, rather than an activity reserved for one lesson.

Willows Primary Academy provides for children aged 2 to 4 within the school in Lichfield. Ofsted’s report published on 3 February 2026 judged early years to be at the Expected standard. The provision for two- and three-year-olds has resources suited to their age and physical development, while adults offer reassurance through close relationships. This is provision built around both learning and the everyday support young children need.

Independent activity has a clear learning purpose across early years. Children return to familiar ideas and investigate new ones, with adults helping them take increasing responsibility for what they do. Making signs is one example: writing has a practical use, giving children a reason to experiment with it. Exploring unfamiliar words is another. These activities connect emerging skills with something children can use.

Books, singing and conversation feature prominently. Adults select reading and learning activities to extend vocabulary, so children have repeated chances to hear and try new language. The curriculum addresses knowledge and skills throughout the learning areas, rather than concentrating solely on preparation for reading.

Early mathematics receives consistent teaching, and phonics follows an ordered progression. Adults check what children understand and offer help promptly when it is needed. There is also a clear development priority: children need a more deliberate focus on fine motor skills. For parents, hand and finger control is therefore an important part of the learning picture, alongside vocabulary and early number work.

Relationships provide practical support. Adults understand children’s needs and respond quickly when they need emotional reassurance, social help or developmental support. Their relationships extend to parents and carers, making the family part of that support.

Learning to play together also receives adult attention. Children collaborate successfully, with staff helping them work through disagreements sensitively. That gives social learning a place alongside language and mathematics. Regular updates explain children’s learning and how families can help at home, providing a connection between activities in the setting and support beyond the session.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place at Willows Primary Academy. Nursery and Reception admissions are separate: families must apply again through the normal Reception application process by the applicable deadline. Treat that application as a separate step when planning your child’s next stage.

The school is off Weston Road, Lichfield, WS13 7NU. Families can contact Willows Primary Academy on 01543421830. Keep the nursery decision and the later Reception application separate when organising your plans.