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Nursery at Shocklach Oviatt CofE 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Wellies and waterproofs belong in the daily kit here. Shocklach Oviatt’s nursery uses a garden room set within woodland, with outdoor learning shaping much of the day. Children can use the Woodland Classroom in wet weather as well as sunshine, making this a practical choice for families who want nature to be part of everyday learning.
Nursery children share a Foundation Unit with Reception. The Autumn 2025 nursery policy specifies a qualified teacher alongside at least one early years teaching assistant with a level 3 qualification. Entry normally begins in the term after a child’s third birthday; paid places after the birthday itself can be considered during that birthday term, subject to space and the headteacher’s discretion.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) takes learning beyond a desk: children explore, talk, play and try things for themselves. Short activities directed by adults sit alongside choices made by children, with learning organised in small groups and as a class. Planning responds to children’s interests, so their own experiences help shape the activities and topics.
Indoor space remains part of the provision, but the woodland is central. Children use both environments for practical learning, rather than treating outside time simply as a break. Early years mathematics includes open-ended problems and resources indoors and outdoors, with separate maths teaching developed through themes led by children. Science brings age-appropriate investigation into both independent activities and work guided by teachers.
Unlocking Letters and Sounds is the named early years phonics programme. The emphasis on speaking, listening and practical play sits alongside those beginnings in reading. Themed days introduce different celebrations, while visits to St Edith’s Church mark dates in the Christian calendar. These give children experiences beyond the classroom to talk about and connect with their learning.
Conscious Discipline is the school’s approach to managing behaviour and emotions. Its aim is to teach the language and skills children need when feelings or disagreements arise. For a nursery child, that places learning how to respond to other people alongside learning through play.
The early years SEND policy sets out a process for noticing emerging difficulties, listening to parents and arranging support through the special educational needs coordinator. It also requires parents to be informed when additional educational provision is made. Families with concerns can start with the class teacher, with the SEND coordinator joining discussions where advice is needed.
Lunch can extend a shorter session: where places permit, children attending for part of the day may stay to eat and leave at 1pm. School meals are prepared on site. That makes lunch a possible part of the nursery routine as well as a practical collection option.
Sharing a class with Reception makes the next stage part of the nursery’s everyday surroundings. It does not guarantee a Reception place. Parents must make a fresh application through Cheshire West and Chester Local Authority, using its online application route at www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk. Keep that application separate from arranging nursery sessions.
Opening hours are 8:50am to 3:20pm, Monday to Friday, across 38 weeks each year. Morning or afternoon attendance is possible where space permits. Flexible arrangements within the school day are agreed with families each term and depend on how the setting operates.
The policy covers 15 funded hours weekly for children aged 3 and 4 across 38 weeks, and also refers to a 30-hour entitlement. Additional sessions beyond the 15-hour entitlement carry charges and depend on available places. Ask the school for current charges.
Application forms come through the school office: telephone 01829 250285 or email admin@shocklachoviatt.cheshire.sch.uk. Visits can be booked through the office too. For woodland learning, the clothing guidance recommends warm waterproof layers and lined wellington boots in winter, with a sun hat and lighter waterproofs for summer. Those outdoor items stay at school, so children have them ready for changing weather.
Normally, in the term following their third birthday. Subject to space and the headteacher’s discretion, paid attendance may be possible after their birthday during the term in which they turn 3.
The nursery opens from 8:50am to 3:20pm, Monday to Friday, for 38 weeks annually. Morning and afternoon sessions depend on availability, with an option to stay for lunch and be collected at 1pm.
The early years setting is predominantly based in woodland. Nursery children use the garden room and have access to the Woodland Classroom throughout the day, including in wet weather.
No. A separate application is required through Cheshire West and Chester Local Authority at www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.
Book through the school office on 01829 250285 or email admin@shocklachoviatt.cheshire.sch.uk.
