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Nursery at Clifton Lodge 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A converted stable block gives Clifton Lodge’s nursery its own base within the school grounds. For children aged three to four, this is a school nursery with a distinct physical setting, rather than simply a younger class in the main building. The school is independent and welcomes boys and girls in Ealing.
At the March 2026 ISI inspection, the early years comprised one nursery class alongside one Reception class, with 29 children across both. That figure describes the combined early years roll at that time, rather than nursery capacity. The nursery staff structure includes a qualified teacher and a teaching assistant with an NCFE Cache Level 2 Certificate.
Play carries substantial learning here. The March 2026 early years findings describe children experimenting with water, building constructions, painting and playing imaginatively, with adults extending their language through conversation and questions. These are foundations for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): learning to communicate, work with others and understand early number through practical activity.
Water containers make measurement tangible. Children transfer water and compare its level, giving an everyday action a mathematical purpose. Different implements for making marks help children develop control towards writing, while stories connect spoken language with early reading. Assessment shapes subsequent activities and helps staff recognise additional needs.
Imaginative spaces include a dentist’s setting, a home corner and a space station. Shop play adds coins and tills, linking early number with a recognisable activity. Seasonal learning includes harvest, Diwali and bonfire night, introducing different customs alongside the practical play.
Outdoor physical challenges also feature in the early years provision. The school grounds include a playground with a canopy, and the school uses nearby Walpole Park for outdoor learning. Together, these give the setting a broader physical context than its stable-block base alone.
Settling rests on relationships and predictable routines. In March 2026, children in the early years settled readily and formed secure relationships with familiar adults. Clear expectations supported considerate play, while staff helped children understand their feelings. A brief nursery taster can include a parent, allowing an introduction before joining.
The SEND policy connects the child’s key person with the special educational needs coordinator, parents and outside professionals when planning support. Parents contribute to support plans, which are reviewed each term. Support responds to the child’s needs rather than waiting for a diagnosis. As a last resort, following consultation with parents and the child where appropriate, a place may be declined or withdrawn if the Headteacher judges that the school cannot meet the child’s needs despite reasonable adjustments.
Care includes close supervision at snacks and meals. Early years staff maintain the required adult ratios, carry out daily safety checks and exclude mobile phones from the setting. Staff training in first aid for young children, alongside qualifications in food hygiene, supports safe care.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Clifton Lodge’s admissions policy makes progression conditional: in rare cases, a place may be refused if the school cannot meet a child’s needs or considers its environment unsuitable for their development. Treat Reception as a separate admissions decision through the school’s Admissions Registrar. The policy gives siblings, registration length and previous school references as possible allocation criteria. Confirm with the school whether nursery attendance confers any priority.
Everyday contact is a different matter. Nursery children collaborate with Reception children, practising communication and social skills together. That familiarity supports relationships; it does not secure admission.
Clifton Lodge offers 15 hours of nursery funding, applied as a deduction from the school fee invoice. Fees are billed by term, with a monthly payment option through School Fee Plan. Bursaries exclude the early years. Ask the school for current charges before committing.
For enquiries, call the admissions team on 020 8832 7542. Private tours can be booked during the school day, giving families an opportunity to discuss their child’s needs and see teaching underway.
The nursery is for children aged three to four. The admissions policy permits a start during the year once a child turns three, at the Head’s discretion.
No. The admissions policy explicitly makes progression conditional, including whether the school can meet the child’s needs.
Yes. The school offers 15 hours of nursery funding as a deduction from its school fee invoice.
Yes. The brief, informal nursery taster can take place with a parent present if requested.
The SEND coordinator works with the child’s key person, parents and relevant professionals. Parents contribute to support plans, with reviews each term.
