Nursery at Eifa International 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
French and English share the nursery day at EIFA, with a teacher and teaching assistant each speaking their native language to children. Language learning happens alongside play, movement and early number work. That makes bilingual experience a practical part of the day from the beginning.
At 36 Portland Place, London, the school's youngest provision comprises Pre-Nursery for ages 2–3 and Nursery for ages 3–4. These are also known as TPS and PS. They sit within an independent school offering education in both languages. Ofsted graded the school's early years provision Good at the inspection of 4 to 6 June 2024.
A sandbox, role-play corners and construction toys give children different ways to explore, talk and make things together. Books and puzzles sit alongside these activities. Early reading, handwriting and mathematics are part of the programme, while science introduces living creatures and materials to investigate. For parents, this gives a concrete picture of early learning: conversation and hands-on exploration accompany preparation for reading and number work.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the framework for this youngest provision, with language, physical development and social learning woven through the activities. French and English are used across the programme. Art, drama and music add further ways for children to express themselves; PE takes place twice weekly, and the nursery programme includes work on both small hand movements and larger body movements.
Outdoor learning deserves attention. In June 2024, inspectors found that early years children generally achieved well, but outdoor learning and curriculum planning and delivery needed further development so children could achieve more. Daily park walks were part of the early years routine at that time, and visits had included a farm and a toy museum. Those experiences took learning beyond the classroom, although the outdoor curriculum remained an improvement priority.
Each EYFS child has an allocated key person. Classroom staffing comprises two adults throughout: a teacher and a teaching assistant. Parents receive journal updates and can discuss their child's progress with teachers, giving families ways to follow learning across the two languages.
Hot lunches are provided daily and are compulsory except for children with a food allergy. Lunch is charged separately. Families therefore need to factor meals into the overall arrangement rather than assume they are included in tuition.
The SENCo coordinates additional-needs provision in EYFS, and teachers discuss concerns about development or progress with parents. Support follows an assess, plan, do and review cycle, with its impact reviewed termly. Support and access. The school says its Grade II listed buildings restrict its ability to accommodate children with severe special educational needs. A child's needs and the site's suitability are considered before an offer, making this a material part of choosing the nursery.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. For Reception admission, apply directly to EIFA through its registration process; applications are considered throughout the year. Where classes are oversubscribed, siblings and Westminster residents receive priority. Keep the nursery choice and the Reception admissions decision separate when planning your child's next stage.
Eligible children aged 3 and 4 can receive up to 15 funded hours weekly, covering 08:30–11:30. This depends on eligibility, continuing funding and the school continuing to provide places under the scheme. Eligible 2-year-olds from working families can also receive up to 15 hours, with parents required to obtain an eligibility code and give it to the school.
Funding limits. EIFA does not provide extended free childcare beyond 15 hours weekly. Funding-only places are limited, and the school can withdraw from either scheme. Additional tuition is charged separately; usual educational materials are included unless an exception is specified. Contact the Registrar for current charges and funding-place enquiries.
Private visits can be arranged through the visit form or by calling 020 7637 5351. There is no everyday uniform, although EIFA PE kit is required. Written withdrawal notice must reach the school by the first day of the preceding term, otherwise fees in lieu may apply.
Pre-Nursery covers ages 2–3 and Nursery ages 3–4, with the French equivalents TPS and PS.
Yes. The programme uses both languages, and the teacher and teaching assistant address children in their native languages.
No. Apply directly to EIFA for Reception admission. Applications are considered throughout the year, and oversubscribed classes give priority to siblings and Westminster residents.
Eligible 3- and 4-year-olds can receive up to 15 hours weekly from 08:30 to 11:30, subject to funding and the school's participation and place availability. Eligible 2-year-olds from working families can also receive up to 15 hours after parents obtain and provide an eligibility code. Funding-only places are limited.
No. Hot school lunches are charged separately and are compulsory unless a child has a food allergy.
