The New Forest Small School Kindergarten Review

Pouring, cleaning and watering plants are part of learning here. The New Forest Small School's Kindergarten gives children practical responsibilities alongside play, with a European kindergarten model shaping the nursery provision at this independent school in Lyndhurst.

Children can start in the term after their third birthday; Kindergarten covers ages three to six. A large double room houses the group, with predominantly wooden furniture and equipment. Sessions accommodate a maximum of 14 children with three teachers, so the youngest children spend their day in a small, mixed-age group rather than a separate nursery cohort.

The first hour gives children time to settle into activities they choose, alongside individual work and teaching. Guided choice continues alongside group and individual lessons. Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Steiner and Scandinavian kindergarten approaches influence the provision. These sit alongside the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): learning combines movement, communication and social development with early reading, number work, creativity and discovering how the world works.

Independence has concrete tasks attached. Children practise sorting and pouring, and take a weekly responsibility such as tending plants or preparing the lunch table. They contribute to the room they use. Adults develop play through questions and role play, giving children opportunities to investigate an idea rather than simply follow instructions.

Outdoor learning extends into the garden and surrounding forest. There are climbing areas, play dens, a see-saw and swings; the garden gate provides access to the forest. During the ISI inspection of 21 to 23 October 2025, early-years activities included riding tricycles, constructing with drainpipes and making things from leaves and twigs. These give children both large movements and smaller hand tasks to practise.

In October 2025, early-years teaching connected stories with yoga and counting with Spanish. Seasonal changes shaped activities, while dressing up, art and construction developed imaginative play. Children made good progress towards their early learning goals. The combination gives families a clear picture of learning through activity, with language and numbers woven into the day.

A key worker takes responsibility for each child's physical, emotional and social needs. Tapestry carries photographs and activity updates, while a progress conversation is offered each half term. Staff also speak to parents after each session, using email where more appropriate. This gives families regular contact alongside the learning journal.

Settling can include an initial visit followed by taster sessions, usually reflecting the intended attendance pattern. By prior arrangement, parents may stay to help their child settle. Lunch brings adults and children together around a large shared table, making mealtimes another opportunity for conversation. Staff consider intolerances and allergies, and accompany children to the toilet while encouraging independence.

The Kindergarten team includes a qualified Montessori educator, and its head also holds the school's SENCo role. In October 2025, early-years supervision supported respectful play, daily safety checks prompted action where needed, and all early-years staff had completed paediatric first aid training. These are practical safeguards around the freedom to explore.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families seeking Reception must make a separate application through the normal route and meet the relevant deadline. Treat that decision separately from choosing the nursery day.

Kindergarten itself spans ages three to six. Children socialise with Class 1, and integration takes place when they are ready, usually at the start of the academic year in which they turn seven. For children leaving for a local school, staff support the family through the move. Familiarity and transition support are useful experiences; they should not be read as an admissions entitlement.

Morning and afternoon sessions are offered, with older children beginning to attend all day. Flexible attendance allows drop-off at half-hour intervals from 9.30am to 1pm and collection at half-hour intervals from noon to 3.30pm. Each session must last at least 2.5 hours. Families can therefore choose a shorter day within those boundaries.

Universal Entitlement provides 15 funded hours weekly for children aged three to five; eligible families can apply through HMRC for the 30-hour Extended Entitlement. Kindergarten part-time charges are calculated by days attended. Fees are non-refundable, including for illness or term-time holidays, and leaving requires at least a full term's written notice. Refer to the school for current charges.

Start a place enquiry using the enquiry form or contact nfss@newforestsmallschool.com. Kindergarten parents may use the car park behind the school; roadside parking and the opposite lay-by should be avoided.