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Nursery at The Swedish 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Swedish early education, language work in Swedish and English, and outings into London give this nursery its distinctive character. The Swedish School’s preschool welcomes children aged 2–5 at its Barnes campus, 82 Lonsdale Road, alongside the primary and secondary provision. It is a school nursery with a Swedish educational identity.
Ofsted graded the school’s early years provision Outstanding at the inspection of 6–8 June 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school’s inspection, rather than a separately inspected nursery.
The Swedish curriculum shapes the learning. Preschool teachers have trained in Sweden, and their approach also draws inspiration from Montessori and Ur och Skur. Bornholmsmodellen is used for language learning. These are useful distinctions for parents choosing the educational approach their child will experience.
An important qualification applies: the school is exempt from EYFS requirements governing learning and development. Its programme therefore follows the Swedish curriculum rather than those EYFS requirements.
Creative projects give children themes to explore, with smaller groups used frequently to support individual attention. Outings take them to playgrounds and parks, often within walking distance; some journeys go further into London. Outdoor experiences extend beyond the school premises.
In June 2023, early years staff used resources and the learning space effectively to develop curiosity and problem-solving. Vocabulary work supported both Swedish and English. The same inspection described independence and social responsibility as early learning goals, with children practising thoughtful decisions about their relationships and surroundings. Learning includes how to get along with other people.
Lunch is cooked at school by its chef, and two snacks are included in the early years fee. Nappies are also included for children aged two. Those everyday provisions reduce what parents need to supply themselves; school healthcare is included too.
A school nurse holds the deputy safeguarding lead role for Early Years and Main School. The wider team includes a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Coordinator, giving families identifiable roles for health, safeguarding and additional support.
Communication with families was effective in June 2023, supporting their involvement in children’s learning. Physical access deserves consideration too: the accessibility plan identifies the preschool entrance as the most accessible entrance for disabled users, and an accessible pupil toilet is located at preschool. These are practical features for families considering mobility needs.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families choosing an English Reception place must apply separately through the normal admissions route and meet the applicable deadline. Treat that application as a separate decision from choosing this Swedish preschool.
Email office@swedishschool.org.uk to arrange a visit or begin an application. Preschool applications are accepted throughout the year, allowing families to make contact around their circumstances.
The early years fee includes learning materials and school jumpers as well as the meals, healthcare and nappies described above. Extended hours and extra tuition fall outside that fee. Ask the school for current charges before committing, so the cost of additional provision is part of the decision.
The preschool welcomes children aged 2–5 at the Barnes campus.
It follows the Swedish curriculum, drawing inspiration from Montessori and Ur och Skur and using Bornholmsmodellen for language learning. The school has an exemption from the EYFS learning and development requirements.
The early years fee includes a lunch cooked on site and two snacks. Nappies are included for two-year-olds.
No. A Reception application is separate and must follow the normal admissions route and applicable deadline.
Email office@swedishschool.org.uk to arrange a visit or start an application.
