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Nursery at Brookside 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Making models, choosing maths resources and returning to a creation to improve it give Brookside’s Foundation Unit its practical character. This is the nursery provision attached to Brookside Primary School in East Leake, where the school’s age range begins at three. The emphasis is on children taking part, making choices and developing independence.
The Foundation classes use a large shared room. Rising Rockets and Shooting Stars signs identify its two entrance doors, while smaller carpet spaces provide places for stories, group discussion and adult teaching. These sit alongside areas where children can explore materials for themselves.
Independent exploration and activities led by teachers both feature in the Foundation day. Brookside aims to adapt learning to children’s interests and individual needs. Read Write Inc supports phonics teaching in the unit, with sound cards and letter-formation guidance offering families ways to reinforce that learning at home.
The indoor layout makes choice concrete. Children can reach maths equipment independently, and labels help them return resources to their places. In the making area, paper, boxes and materials for joining and decorating are accessible to children. A storage shelf lets them keep unfinished work and revisit it. That gives a model a life beyond a single activity.
In November 2024, Ofsted found that early years children benefited from purposeful play, thoughtful activities and established routines. Shaping Plasticine, constructing with bricks and dramatising stories supported social confidence, persistence and curiosity. Personal, social and emotional development received particular attention: learning here includes managing feelings and interacting with others, alongside practical exploration.
Outdoor learning has a physical base in Brookside’s own woodland. Forest School activities across the school include shelter construction, exploring natural materials and recognising wildlife and plants. The woodland gives that work a setting beyond the classroom; it should be distinguished from a specific nursery timetable.
Preparation for starting in Foundation includes a video tour and stories recorded by staff. Families can use these to introduce the space and staff voices before the start. Information about joining is shared directly with families once a place has been offered, and the Foundation team has its own email contact.
Child-height handwashing facilities and toilets designed for children support everyday independence. For concerns about learning or development, parents can speak with the class teacher or the special educational needs co-ordinator. Safeguarding concerns can be raised confidentially with the designated lead or deputy.
The school also has a medical-diet request route. Families needing that provision can use it to communicate dietary requirements.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Nottinghamshire County Council’s co-ordinated admissions scheme, following the normal application deadline. Treat choosing nursery and applying for Reception as separate decisions.
The Foundation video tour and recorded stories offer practical preparation for joining the unit. Familiarity with a space is useful preparation, but it does not secure admission.
Nursery enquiries go to the school office on 01509 820001 or office@brookside.notts.sch.uk. Questions about starting in Foundation can go to foundation@brookside.notts.sch.uk. Foundation children are required to wear uniform.
Active Minds operates independently in the Old Building, providing care for children aged three to 11 from Brookside School and East Leake Pre-school Playgroup. Its morning hours are 7.30am to 8.50am; afternoon care runs from 3.30pm to 6pm. Book directly with Active Minds using activemindskidsclub@hotmail.com or 07881 296687. The school does not manage these bookings.
No. Families need to apply separately through Nottinghamshire County Council’s co-ordinated admissions scheme.
Children combine independent activities with teacher-led learning. Maths resources, model-making materials and carpet spaces support exploration, stories and group activities. The unit uses Read Write Inc for phonics.
A video tour and staff-recorded stories can introduce children to the unit. Joining information is shared directly after a place is offered, and families can contact foundation@brookside.notts.sch.uk.
Speak with the child’s class teacher or the school’s special educational needs co-ordinator about concerns regarding learning and progress.
Active Minds provides independent care in the Old Building for eligible children aged three to 11. Sessions run from 7.30am to 8.50am and from 3.30pm to 6pm. Book with Active Minds directly.
