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Nursery at Leigh Academy Oaks
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Play that prompts a conversation, then a new challenge: that is the distinctive thread running through Ducklings Nursery at Leigh Academy Oaks. Children explore, while adults watch for opportunities to extend their thinking. The nursery caters for three and four year olds at the academy on Oak Tree Avenue in Maidstone.
In the Ofsted report published on 10 March 2026, early years received an Exceptional judgement. This covers the school's early years provision, rather than a separate nursery inspection. Communication, independence and support tailored to individual children were clear strengths.
Learning combines children's exploration with focused teaching. Indoor learning areas and outdoor spaces give children opportunities to investigate and use their imagination; adults also lead phonics and maths activities. The Early Years Foundation Stage is the starting point, with attention to children's language, independence and foundations for reading and writing.
In the Moment Planning gives play a practical purpose. Staff observe what a child is doing, then respond to the learning opportunity as it happens. Conferencing means talking together about learning, reflection and what could improve. For parents, this means that children's interests help shape the next challenge, alongside the adult-led activities.
Ducklings also follows the Primary Years Programme (IB PYP). Its inquiry approach encourages children to explore beyond the immediate lesson. Learner Profile Attributes include being Caring and Reflective, giving children words to discuss how they learn and relate to others.
Language receives sustained attention. In March 2026, children encountered carefully selected vocabulary at the beginning of the day, with staff returning to those words later so children could practise using them. Each child also has a Learning Journey journal containing photographs and examples of learning. Families keep it when their child's nursery time ends.
Ducklings aims to help children feel comfortable and settle readily. The March 2026 early years findings give substance to the support around them: staff recognised needs promptly and adjusted help to the individual child. Children with special educational needs or disabilities, disadvantaged children and those known to social care benefited from this attention. Staff training and partnerships with parents supported children's development.
Food arrangements are straightforward. Fruit and milk are supplied at both morning and afternoon snack times. Children staying through lunch bring a healthy packed lunch, unless they qualify for an Early Years Pupil Premium free school meal, in which case a packed lunch is provided. Families therefore need to plan lunch separately from the supplied snacks.
Attending Ducklings does not guarantee a Reception place or confer nursery attendance priority under the 2026-27 admission arrangements. Families must make a separate application through Kent County Council's online Reception Common Application Form, following its admissions timetable. Treat that application as a separate task from booking nursery sessions.
Transition support is a different matter. The academy's programme includes transition days and meetings involving parents, nursery staff, the class teacher and the SEND team; home visits are possible. These arrangements help adults share information about a child before the move. They do not change how places are allocated.
The nursery operates Monday to Friday for 38 weeks each year. Morning sessions run from 9am to noon, with afternoon sessions from noon to 3pm. There are 15 funded hours for three and four year olds, starting from the term after their third birthday; eligible families can access 30 funded hours.
For the extended entitlement, provide the eligibility code a month before term begins and reconfirm it every three months. Agreed session choices are contracted, with changes taking effect at the start of September, January or April. Additional hours are charged, and fees are paid before each term. Outings and celebrations beyond usual session activities are excluded from those fees. Contact the academy for current charges and enquiries on 01622 755960 or info@oaks.latrust.org.uk.
Collection requires an adult aged at least 18. Notify the office beforehand if someone other than the primary carer will collect; an adult unfamiliar to staff must give the child's security password. Late collection attracts a charge, so the session finish time matters when arranging the school run.
Ducklings provides nursery places for three and four year olds.
Morning sessions are 9am to noon and afternoon sessions are noon to 3pm, Monday to Friday, across 38 weeks each year.
The nursery accepts 15 funded hours from the term after a child's third birthday and 30 hours for eligible families. For 30 hours, supply the code a month before term starts and reconfirm eligibility every three months.
No. Nursery attendance neither guarantees a place nor gives attendance priority under the 2026-27 arrangements. Apply separately through Kent County Council's online Reception Common Application Form.
Yes, if your child stays for lunch, unless they qualify for an Early Years Pupil Premium free school meal. Eligible children receive a packed lunch. Morning and afternoon fruit and milk snacks are supplied.
