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Nursery at Aldwyn 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Stories, conversation and a choice of indoor or outdoor learning give Aldwyn’s nursery its shape. Children practise skills with adults, then explore and use them through activities they choose themselves. Books connect the learning.
The nursery belongs to Aldwyn Primary School’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) unit in Audenshaw. There are 24 full-time places, with the usual September start following a child’s third birthday. The school occupies a single-level building, with wide corridors providing wheelchair access between departments.
The EYFS brings together early learning and children’s development. Here, that means making marks, sharing stories, solving problems and learning to look after themselves. Themes link to a central book, giving children something shared to discuss while they build vocabulary and explore ideas.
Sessions combine activities led by adults, children’s own choices and independent tasks with a particular purpose. Adults ask questions during open-ended play, encouraging children to explain their thinking. Children can move freely between the indoor and outdoor learning spaces, so reading, drawing and reasoning are not confined to a table indoors. The classroom environment changes as children develop and need different challenges.
Read Write Inc provides the phonics approach across early years. Interactive sessions introduce letter sounds and shapes through different sensory experiences, with materials also accessible during children’s independent activity. Adults read aloud daily, and children are encouraged to discuss books and suggest favourite stories. This gives reading both a taught element and a social one.
Independence also receives attention. Children practise self-care and learn about managing risk, alongside opportunities to talk and listen to each other. The aim is to develop habits children can use throughout their day, as well as early reading skills.
Before starting nursery, families are encouraged to visit with their child to meet staff. Nursery transition meetings give parents information about the move. For children who find changes difficult, an individual programme can include extra time with key staff and strategies tailored to the child.
Additional needs sit within the school’s assess, plan, do, review process. Parents contribute to a written profile shared with the adults supporting their child, helping staff use a consistent approach. Termly meetings review targets and adjust support. Speech and Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy are among the specialist services the school can access where needs require them.
Practical access includes two accessible toilets, one with changing facilities. Sensory resources include ear defenders and fidget toys. For children needing a medical care plan, staff meet parents to agree it. Some children may qualify for free school meals regardless of age; the school office handles meal enquiries.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply again through the normal Reception admissions process by its normal deadline. Aldwyn participates in the process coordinated by Tameside Council, using the Tameside Admissions Portal. Keep that application separate from the nursery application made directly to school.
Preparation for the next class is a different matter. Each July, the school holds a moving-up day for children to spend time with their next teacher and teaching assistants. Staff also exchange information about children’s needs and the support that has worked for them. These arrangements help with familiarity; they do not secure admission.
Two attendance patterns are offered: 15-hour places run from 8.45 am to 11.45 am, while 30-hour places run from 8.45 am to 3.15 pm. The longer pattern includes a separately charged lunchtime-care period between 11.45 am and 12.15 pm. Families whose children qualify for 15-hour funding but attend a 30-hour week pay an additional daily charge. Contact the school for current charges.
Nursery application forms come from the school office. General enquiries can be made on 0161 370 3626 or by email to admin@aldwyn.victoriousmat.org. Prospective pupil visits can be booked through the headteacher, giving families a chance to discuss their child’s needs before starting.
The usual intake is in September after a child’s third birthday. Aldwyn offers 24 full-time nursery places.
The 15-hour pattern runs from 8.45 am to 11.45 am. The 30-hour pattern runs from 8.45 am to 3.15 pm.
No. A separate Reception application is required through the normal admissions process coordinated by Tameside Council.
Early years uses Read Write Inc for phonics. Adults also read aloud daily, and children discuss books and share their favourite stories.
Contact the school office to arrange a visit or speak to the SENDCo. Families are encouraged to visit with their child before starting nursery.
