St Jude's Church of England Primary School Nursery Review

Library books, theatre visits and conversation give St Jude's nursery its character. The early years unit occupies the school grounds on Colnbrook Street in Southwark and participates in school life, so children's experiences extend beyond their own classroom.

The January 2026 Ofsted report judged early years to meet the Expected standard. That is an early years judgement within the school's inspection, rather than a separate nursery rating. Its emphasis on language, play and relationships gives parents a useful picture of the provision.

Talking is central to learning here. In January 2026, adults helped children expand their vocabulary by demonstrating language and drawing them into conversations with a purpose. Adult-directed activities sit alongside play, giving children opportunities to revisit learning while making choices and cooperating with others.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers seven learning areas. In parent terms, this combines learning to communicate, manage feelings and move confidently with early literacy, number work, exploring the world and creative expression. Activities are adjusted to children's needs and interests, with opportunities to repeat learning or take it further.

Science gives that exploration concrete tools: magnifying glasses, tweezers and pipettes feature in the early years provision. Children investigate changes in their surroundings and try out ideas. These are practical ways to begin observing and asking questions, rather than simply hearing explanations.

Books also take children beyond the classroom. EYFS visits to Walworth Library include choosing books and listening to stories; theatre visits begin with Nursery, with the Unicorn Theatre among the destinations. Together, these experiences connect language and storytelling with places in the local community.

Within the wider school, an Outdoor Sensory Space includes natural elements alongside different sounds, colours and textures. It is used by children across the school, including those who benefit from a quieter break. This gives outdoor provision a role in managing feelings as well as exploration.

Settling begins with a home visit before nursery entry. For children with identified special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), the school may agree a modified settling period with parents through a Team Around the Child meeting. For these children with identified SEND, an early discussion with the class teacher follows settling, and families are invited to review progress at least termly.

The January 2026 early years findings describe children feeling secure through adults' knowledge of them and supportive exchanges. Activities are adapted for additional needs, including SEND, and families receive updates about learning with encouragement to help at home. The practical implication is support shaped around the child, rather than one fixed route through activities.

Meals are cooked on the premises, and the catering arrangements accommodate allergies and dietary requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free diets. Families can choose school meals or packed lunches. Packed lunches must exclude nuts, and changing between lunch options requires written notice of half a term.

Attending St Jude's nursery does not guarantee a Reception place or confer priority under its 2025–2026 admission arrangements. Families must submit a separate application. Southwark residents use the council's online Common Application Form; families elsewhere apply through their home local authority. Foundation applicants also need the school's supplementary form.

For the September 2026 intake, the on-time deadline was 15 January 2026. That cycle is past. Nursery attendance should therefore be treated as a choice about early education, rather than a secured next place.

Transition support is a separate matter. For children with SEND moving between classes, staff share information with the receiving teacher and hold a planning meeting. A transition book or card is also provided for home, helping children understand the change ahead.

Part-time places can follow five mornings or two and a half days; full-time places are also offered. The nursery's funded model includes 15 hours across five sessions, with full-time funding available to families eligible for 30 hours. Funding must be arranged before the starting term. Self-funded full-time attendance is charged in advance; contact the school for current charges.

EYFS uniform includes a green jumper, with the logo optional, a white shirt or polo, and grey bottoms, including joggers. Black trainers or school shoes are permitted. Label clothing and bring a water bottle and school bag each day.

For enquiries, contact admin@st-judesschool.co.uk or telephone 020 7928 5484. Keep the school informed of changes to collection arrangements: unfamiliar collectors are checked, and staff contact the main carer if a change has not been authorised.