Allfarthing Primary School Nursery Review

Uninterrupted play gives Allfarthing’s early years provision its shape. Children have time to pursue an activity, with adults joining their exploration and helping them develop new skills. This is the school’s own nursery on St Ann’s Crescent in Wandsworth, with entry from the term following a child’s third birthday.

Two part-time nursery teachers divide the week: one teaches Monday to Wednesday and also leads EYFS; the other teaches Thursday and Friday. That gives families a clear picture of the teaching pattern.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers learning before children move into the later school curriculum. At Allfarthing, extended periods of play allow children to stay absorbed in what they are doing. Adults and children explore together, rather than treating play simply as a break between lessons. For a young child, that means time to investigate and return to an idea.

Open-ended materials can serve different purposes, encouraging children to experiment with how they use them. Sharing equipment, handling it safely and putting it away are also part of the learning. Practical responsibility belongs within the day.

Ofsted’s October 2023 inspection found that early years resources, both inside and outdoors, supported learning across the curriculum, including beginning reading and number work. Independence and persistence were taught alongside learning to play with others. The implication is useful for parents: learning here includes managing relationships and everyday tasks, as well as developing early academic skills.

Preparation starts before nursery entry. Home visits give staff and parents an opportunity to discuss a child’s interests, strengths and preferences; prospective families also meet a member of the leadership team. Where a child has a disability, staff consider adjustments to both the physical surroundings and learning. This makes the initial conversation about the individual child.

For concerns about development or additional needs, the class teacher is the first contact. Parents can use Dojo, telephone the office or arrange a conversation. The school’s support process combines observation, agreed actions and a review date, with the SENCo helping to plan extra support when needed. Speech and Language Therapists or an Educational Psychologist may carry out further assessments if concerns continue.

Medical preparation includes a questionnaire before entry and a health care plan, with relevant training for staff working with children who have medical needs. Allfarthing is nut-free. For families managing a medical condition, this places information-sharing before the child starts.

A separate application is essential. Attending Allfarthing’s nursery does not guarantee a Reception place or produce an automatic transfer. Families must apply again through the normal admissions route: the school’s admissions policy directs them to Wandsworth Borough Council’s online application at eadmissions.org.uk. The local authority sends the offer.

For children with additional needs who move between classes, transition meetings allow teachers to exchange information about support. Visits to the next classroom and cloakroom help children become familiar with their surroundings. These preparations support the change of class; they do not secure admission.

Nursery applications use the school’s online nursery form. Admissions enquiries go to admissions@allfarthing.wandsworth.sch.uk. Families can also book an open morning online; the visit lasts approximately an hour and includes a pupil-led school tour.

Uniform applies from nursery onwards. Royal blue tops and a branded blue sweatshirt or cardigan are paired with grey or black bottoms. Black shoes should be manageable independently, making dressing another opportunity to practise self-care. Label clothing, and provide a sun hat for summer and a coat for cold or wet weather. The PTA also holds second-hand uniform sales, giving families another way to obtain clothing.