Oaklands School Nursery Review

Painting logs, washing toy cars and cooking give Oaklands’ youngest children practical ways to learn. Nursery and Pre-School provision caters for children aged 2, 3 and 4 within this independent school in Loughton. Nursery occupies Oak House, giving the younger children a distinct base within the school site.

In September 2024, there were two Nursery classes. The early-years curriculum supported good progress from children’s starting points, with indoor and outdoor activities helping them develop skills and understand the world around them. Practical exploration matters here alongside early reading and number work.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together language, physical development, relationships, literacy, mathematics, creativity and understanding the world. For parents, that means learning extends beyond letters and numbers: communicating, managing feelings and becoming more independent are part of the programme too.

Specialist teaching in Music, Dance and PE/Games adds different kinds of activity to the younger children’s learning. Pre-School has an outdoor play area designed to support movement between inside and outside, so exploration can continue across both spaces.

In September 2024, early-years children developed coordination through cooking, painting logs and cleaning toy cars. Role play and exploration of nature gave them opportunities to use their imagination; children also explained their discoveries to adults and invited others to join in. These are practical routes into conversation and cooperation.

Early mathematics and phonics teaching supported rapid gains in September 2024. Children built their understanding of number and enjoyed learning to read. Visits from the fire service, police and Epping Forest rangers introduced early-years children to people who help their community, connecting classroom learning with recognisable jobs and services.

Keyworkers oversee children’s learning, social development and care, with daily contact giving parents a regular opportunity to raise questions. Telephone, email and daily link books provide further ways to communicate. That keeps everyday concerns from having to wait for a formal meeting.

Settling starts before the first day. Nursery children have a school experience session before starting, and staff arrange a home visit during the preceding half term. Learning about a child’s habits, preferences and individual needs gives the team a more personal starting point for care.

Lunch is included in full-day fees. For families managing allergies or additional needs, discussion with the school is required before the taster session so that provision can be considered. In September 2024, all early-years staff held paediatric first-aid qualifications, and staff had training in food hygiene and supervising children safely.

Additional learning support uses agreed targets, parental involvement and checks on progress. A SENDCo coordinates provision, with external specialists involved in discussion with parents when necessary. Support limits. Highly specialised or intensive support exceeds the school’s facilities and resources. Families need to assess whether the provision can meet their child’s particular needs.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Nursery and Reception admissions are distinct processes, and nursery attendance is not one of the preference factors used when deciding between suitable applicants.

Families applying for Reception use the school’s own admissions process, including an observed taster session or day before an offer. An acceptance form must be returned within two weeks of the formal offer date. A school experience session takes place during the half term before the accepted start date; this preparation is separate from the decision to offer a place.

For September 2026 to August 2027, new Nursery and Pre-School children can attend three, four or five full days each week over 50 weeks. Children begin with at least three days, with the option to increase attendance during the year subject to availability. This is a substantial weekly commitment for families seeking occasional sessions.

Charged nursery care runs from 7.30am to 8.30am and from 5pm to 6pm. Ask the school for current charges. Funding can contribute towards fees: the school participates in the 15-hour entitlement from the term after a child turns three until the term in which they turn five, and accesses 30-hour provision for attendance exceeding 38 weeks annually. Eligibility determines the funding available.

The Admissions Registrar handles nursery enquiries and visit bookings. Nursery children wear school uniform, available through Forest Casual and Schoolwear; the Oaklands Parents’ Association also runs a recycled uniform service. On-site parking and a collection area have access from Warren Hill, giving families a practical route into the grounds.