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Nursery at Newcroft Primary Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Woodland walks and time in the main school library give Newcroft Pre-School a day that extends beyond its own classroom. This is Newcroft Primary Academy’s nursery provision in Shepshed, welcoming children aged 3+. Its classroom and outdoor environment sit within the school setting, with opportunities to join special assemblies and curriculum days.
At the Ofsted inspection on 13 and 14 May 2025, early years provision was judged Outstanding. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery.
Discovery time occupies most of the day. Children explore indoors and outdoors through free-flow play, alongside organised group activities. The curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Development Matters: here, that framework takes practical shape through exploration, group time, books and physical activity.
Each week includes PE, phonics sessions, library visits and walks through the meadow and woodland, alongside Forest School. The main school library gives books a place beyond the nursery classroom. In May 2025, children in early years were absorbed by stories and keen to participate, while consistent routines helped them develop independence and enthusiasm for learning.
Little Acorns Forest School partners with the school for specialist sessions. These take place on Fridays during each year group’s Forest School block, including Pre-School, with additional teacher-led early years sessions during the year. Activities include investigating wildlife, making art with natural materials and constructing shelters. The on-site woodland makes outdoor learning part of the school grounds, rather than an occasional journey elsewhere.
A Pre-School manager who is also a teacher works alongside early years practitioners. Before joining, families are encouraged to bring their child on a visit so they can explore the classroom and outdoor area and begin becoming familiar with the setting. It is a useful first introduction to the people and spaces that will shape their day.
In May 2025, additional needs were recognised promptly in early years, and support helped children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) achieve exceptionally well. Families can contact the school’s SENCo and assistant SENCo through the office. Safeguarding concerns can also be raised through the office with the Pre-School safeguarding lead or the school safeguarding lead.
Food is included within the wraparound routines. Breakfast Club serves fruit, cereal and toast to children arriving by 8:20am; After School Club provides a light snack tea around 4:00pm.
Attending Newcroft Pre-School does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the Leicestershire Local Authority website. For entry in 2027, applications opened on 1 September 2026 and close on 15 January 2027.
Library sessions, special assemblies and school curriculum days bring nursery children into parts of school life before that next step. These experiences build familiarity with the wider setting; they should be considered separately from the application for a school place.
Breakfast and After School Clubs both accept Pre-School children. Families book individual days through ParentPay, allowing them to arrange care day by day. Teaching support staff run both clubs on the school site. Breakfast Club starts at 7:30am, with drop-off until 8:30am; After School Club begins at 3:15pm. Contact the school for current club charges.
Individual nursery visits usually take place at 3:30pm after the school day, with alternative times arranged where possible. Enquiries and visits can be arranged by phone or through the enquiry form. Call 01509 503214.
Uniform includes a branded or unbranded sweatshirt or cardigan and a non-branded white polo shirt. Children wear non-branded black or grey tracksuit bottoms or leggings, or a grey school skirt or grey school trousers. Shoes must be flat, durable and suitable for climbing and play; Crocs and flip-flops are excluded.
Eligible children can receive support through Early Years Pupil Premium. The Pre-School team helps families apply, and the setting works with parents on how that support is used, including learning equipment, home resources or individual and small-group activities.
The provision welcomes children aged 3+.
They explore the outdoor environment, take meadow and woodland walks, and participate in Forest School, including activities such as shelter building and investigating wildlife.
Yes. Both Breakfast Club and After School Club welcome Pre-School children, with individual days booked through ParentPay.
No. A separate application is required through Leicestershire Local Authority. The deadline for Reception entry in 2027 is 15 January 2027.
Yes. Families are encouraged to bring their child. Visits usually take place at 3:30pm, with alternative times arranged where possible.
