Nell Gwynn Nursery School: Learning Through Play

During the May 2023 inspection, bikes, growing plants and sandcastle building gave Nell Gwynn’s nursery provision a practical character. Play supplied the material for learning: a train set became a counting activity, while planting seeds introduced new vocabulary. These examples showed early education built around things children could handle, explore and discuss.

Nell Gwynn Nursery School serves children aged two to five and belongs to the River Peck Federation. The focus here is the nursery experience itself, with children’s interests helping to shape an Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.

The EYFS connects physical and social development with communication, early reading, number work, creative expression and learning about the world. For parents, that means learning extends beyond a discrete lesson: conversation, movement and play all have a place. Nell Gwynn’s curriculum takes children’s interests into account, giving their curiosity a role in what they explore.

In May 2023, children used the outdoor garden for sandcastle construction, rode bikes and tended plants. Different age groups had designated periods in the outdoor areas. Adults used questions during construction and introduced vocabulary during planting, linking hands-on activity with thinking and speech. The garden was a learning space as well as somewhere to move.

During the May 2023 inspection, counting pieces of railway track supported early mathematics. Painting involved experimenting with colour, swirls and shapes, while stories prompted enthusiastic listening and children’s own retellings. Learning about animals included drawing, writing and discussing adults and their young. These examples show how one activity can bring several areas of development together.

Language development. The May 2023 inspection identified occasions when adults missed chances to deepen children’s communication and understanding. More precise exchanges were needed to help children retain and consolidate learning. That matters alongside the positive examples of vocabulary work: purposeful conversation needs to carry through children’s play.

Relationships provide a foundation for settling. In May 2023, children settled successfully and formed positive connections with adults. Staff worked with parents to understand individual strengths and needs, then discussed children regularly as a team. This connected family knowledge with decisions about support.

Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) received effective help across the curriculum. Needs were recognised early, classroom activity was adapted, and children needing additional speech and language support were helped effectively. Support was tied to participation in learning.

Daily care also built independence. Children washed their hands ahead of lunch and took part in serving food. Adults demonstrated turn-taking and encouraged children to share bikes, making social routines part of the day. Safeguarding arrangements were effective in May 2023: staff received training and updates, concerns were acted on promptly, and leaders worked with other agencies to support families.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline.

Preparation for the next setting is a separate matter. Nell Gwynn shares information with receiving schools to help them respond to children’s educational needs. This supports continuity of care and learning; it should not be read as an admissions advantage.

The nursery office is the enquiry route: telephone 020 7252 8265 or email office@nellgwynn.southwark.sch.uk. These provide direct contact with the setting.