Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace Nursery

Learning through play, with a choice between three-hour sessions and a longer day, gives this nursery its shape. Part of Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace on Malcolm Road in Penge, it provides for three- and four-year-olds. There are 52 places, divided into 26 per session. Children may join in the term following their third birthday, subject to space.

The nursery describes its team as experienced and highly qualified. Its approach centres on learning through play, giving families a school nursery with both part-time and full-time options.

Children learn through play here.

Session length makes a practical difference. A morning or afternoon place covers three hours; the funded full day runs from 8.30am to 2.30pm. An optional extension takes collection to 3.30pm. For children taking the 30-hour funded options, a hot lunch is included free, so the longer day also incorporates a meal.

Home visits form part of transition support for early-years children, providing a link between home and school as children begin. Families with SEND concerns can start with the class teacher and then speak to the special educational needs coordinator (SENCO). The SENCO works with early-years staff to identify needs early and involves parents in discussions about assessments and outside support.

Support connects to named services, including speech and language therapists and educational psychologists. At school level, accessibility features include ramps and a lift serving the main hall. These are useful practical provisions for families considering mobility needs.

For children with SEN who need assistance at mealtimes, kitchen staff and lunchtime supervisors liaise with teaching staff about support with eating. This makes lunch part of the care conversation as well as the daily routine.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through their child's home local authority, using its Common Application Form and meeting the deadline for the relevant intake.

For September 2026 entry, nursery attendance did confer priority: it was the fifth oversubscription category, ahead of other applicants but behind four higher categories. Children had to attend the nursery at the application date or deadline, and parents had to confirm attendance on the form. Distance decided the order where a category had more applicants than remaining places. The deadline for that intake was 15 January 2026, which has passed. Families considering a later intake should check the arrangements for that year.

Preparation is a separate matter. Summer induction activities for children starting Reception include classroom time, a family picnic and stay and play. Visits can be adapted for individual SEND needs, helping children become familiar with their next setting without changing their admissions position.

All nursery options run Monday to Friday during term time. The 15-hour patterns are five mornings, 8.30am to 11.30am, or five afternoons, 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Full-time places require attendance across five days, for 38 weeks a year.

Eligible families can use 30 funded hours. The hour between 2.30pm and 3.30pm is charged when extending that funded day. Families using 15-hour funding can also pay to top up to either longer pattern. Reduced top-up charges apply to children eligible for Early Years Pupil Premium funding; contact the academy for current charges.

Uniform includes a compulsory white polo shirt, royal nursery sweatshirt and royal document case. For nursery enquiries, email admissions@harrisprimarycrystalpalace.org.uk or telephone 0208 778 4742. School tours can be booked through the same email address, offering a practical starting point for families considering the nursery.