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Nursery at Ronald Openshaw Nursery 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
An all-weather garden and a play-led curriculum give Ronald Openshaw its character. This maintained nursery school on Henniker Road in Stratford serves children aged two to four, combining nursery education with specialist provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Nursery education is the school’s purpose, rather than an extra department within a primary school.
Qualified Froebelian teachers lead the staff team, with outdoor learning influenced by a Forest School approach. Children choose resources and activities that catch their interest; adults help develop the learning that follows. That gives children a say in their day while keeping teaching involved.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is taught through play. For parents, that means learning grows from what children do: exploring, talking, making and solving problems. Teachers and Early Years Educators organise the day, and staff assess progress through observations and samples of children’s work. Activities take place indoors and outside.
The garden stays open through cold and wet weather, so outdoor learning is part of the ordinary routine. Messy activities, running and climbing also shape the practical advice to families: clothes need to withstand play and let children manage things for themselves.
In May 2023, Ofsted found that learning developed in carefully planned steps, with adults helping children extend their interests and persist with challenges. Garden construction gave children opportunities to discuss designs and solve problems together. Climbing began on lower structures, with taller equipment introduced as confidence and skills developed. The physical challenge had a teaching purpose.
Language received equally deliberate attention in May 2023. Adults introduced vocabulary during play, while books, rhymes and storytelling helped children express ideas. Toys and other objects became starting points for stories children created themselves. Experiences beyond the classroom included a Sikh temple visit, local forest exploration, swimming lessons and trips to farms and parks, connecting learning with places children could experience directly.
Close relationships supported children’s care in May 2023. Adults helped children recognise emotions and consider how their behaviour affected others; turn-taking was taught through everyday activities such as sharing books. Safeguarding was effective at that inspection, with trained staff working with outside professionals to obtain help promptly.
Parents take part in setting targets and developing individual programmes. A community Stay & Play Group gives families a way to become familiar with the nursery’s services before making them part of their routine.
SEND support includes adapted activities and work with parents, advisory teachers and external agencies. In May 2023, children with SEND participated alongside their peers throughout school life. Specialist resourced places for children with complex needs are allocated through the local authority; this is a distinct route from an ordinary nursery application.
Food routines include healthy snacks and cooking activities. The nursery excludes nuts and nut-containing foods, and birthday treats are made with children in class. Families are asked to keep celebration cakes and sweets at home.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route by the normal deadline. Treat choosing nursery and applying for primary school as separate decisions.
Morning places run from 9am to noon; full-time places run from 9am to 3pm. There are no afternoon-only sessions or wraparound care. Families needing a longer childcare day must plan around those limits.
Government-funded provision operates for 38 weeks each year. For local children, funded 15-hour places are available from age three and for eligible two-year-olds; funded 30-hour places also depend on eligibility. Fee-paying places are also offered subject to the age and availability conditions in the admissions arrangements. Ask the school for current charges, including activity contributions.
To join the waiting list, email the completed application form to info@ronaldopenshaw.newham.sch.uk. Dress children for messy play and independent toileting, with weatherproof outdoor clothing and spare underwear and socks. Keep collection arrangements updated: authorised collectors must be over 16, and an unfamiliar adult needs an agreed password.
The nursery provides education for children aged two, three and four.
Morning places run from 9am to noon, and full-time places from 9am to 3pm. There are no afternoon-only sessions or wraparound care.
Outdoor learning is a central part of the approach, and the garden opens in all weather. Children need suitable coats and footwear.
Children with SEND take part in nursery learning with support and adapted activities. Specialist resourced places for complex needs are allocated through the local authority.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee Reception admission. Families must apply separately through the normal admissions process.
