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Nursery at Arnhem Wharf Primary 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Play, conversation and a growing interest in books give Arnhem Wharf’s nursery its focus. Part of Arnhem Wharf Primary School on the Isle of Dogs, it introduces children to learning through play, with social skills and communication alongside early mathematics and creative expression. The school aims to help children become independent learners who enjoy books and feel ready to begin reading and writing.
Nursery sits within an early-years team led by an Assistant Head for EYFS. The wider staff includes teachers, nursery nurses and teaching assistants, giving the provision a place within the school’s teaching and support structure.
Learning starts with things young children can explore: talking, playing, making and noticing. Early mathematics, books and the arts sit alongside curiosity about the world. These priorities give parents a useful picture of the nursery’s approach: developing children’s ability to communicate and investigate, as well as introducing reading and number skills.
At the June 2023 inspection, nursery drawing practice and early-years work identifying plant parts illustrated how learning begins with simple skills and observations. Familiar stories, songs and rhymes also featured in early years. For a young child, these are accessible ways into language, listening and understanding the natural world.
Outdoor play continues through the year. Wellington boots and clothing suited to different weather are encouraged, so families should prepare for outdoor activity across the seasons. A spare outfit, kept in a drawstring bag on the child’s peg, makes changes of clothes part of the practical preparation for nursery life.
Families joining Nursery at the beginning of the school year have a meeting for new parents. Those joining at another point meet an Assistant Headteacher and Home Support Workers. This creates an opportunity for families to discuss their child with staff.
Communication continues through parent meetings each term and a report at the end of the year. Parents can also discuss progress with the class teacher between those formal occasions. Two Home School Support workers provide families with information and support, while parent courses and information sessions run each term.
For special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the class teacher is the first contact. Parents participate throughout SEN support, with referrals to the inclusion team where appropriate. Individual education plans are reviewed termly with parents and children. Personal care is overseen by the Assistant Head for Inclusion and requires parents’ written consent, making agreement with families part of that care arrangement.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Tower Hamlets Primary Co-ordinated Admissions using eAdmissions. For the September 2026 intake, the application deadline was 15 January 2026; that cycle has passed.
Children with SEND have personalised plans for transitions within the school. Staff also liaise with families and involved professionals when a child with additional needs joins. This preparation concerns the child’s support and adjustment; Reception admission remains a separate application.
Full-time places. For the September 2026 nursery intake, the school announced that a limited number of full-time places would be available to eligible families who had applied for the required code. Families needed to meet both conditions.
Uniform is optional in Nursery, while children need a book bag. To arrange a school visit, email admin@arnhemwharf.towerhamlets.sch.uk; the team will contact you to agree a time. General enquiries can also go to that address or to 020 7515 4310. The school is at 1 Arnhem Place, London E14 3RP.
No. Families must apply separately for Reception through Tower Hamlets Primary Co-ordinated Admissions using eAdmissions.
Children learn through play, developing communication and social skills alongside early mathematics, an interest in books and expression through the arts.
Uniform is optional. Children need a book bag, and families are encouraged to provide wellington boots, outdoor clothing for different weather and spare clothes.
Speak first to the class teacher, who can refer concerns to the Assistant Head for Inclusion where appropriate. Parents are involved throughout SEN support.
Yes. Email admin@arnhemwharf.towerhamlets.sch.uk to request a visit, and the school team will arrange a time with you.
