Church Vale Primary School and Foundation Unit Nursery Review

Daily singing, traditional tales and outdoor play in every weather give Church Vale's nursery a clear character. Foundation 1 is the nursery provision within Church Vale Primary School and Foundation Unit, on Laurel Avenue in Church Warsop, serving the school's youngest children from age three. Its day runs in separate morning and afternoon sessions, with a class teacher and other Foundation staff supporting the children.

Stories give children plenty to talk about. The spring learning theme brings together nursery rhymes and traditional tales, including The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and The Gingerbread Man. Singing happens daily. These familiar words and repeated stories give children opportunities to build vocabulary and join in with others.

Mark making is encouraged at home too. A bowl of water and a paintbrush become tools for drawing on an outside wall or fence, giving families a simple activity to try together beyond the nursery session.

Early reading starts in Foundation 1, with daily phonics alongside listening games and stories. Children take home both a lilac reading book for their own reading and a book for an adult to share. Families are asked to read together at least three times a week and bring the reading folder each day. That makes home reading part of the nursery routine rather than a separate activity.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum sets learning steps across its different areas, giving children a planned progression through their early learning. At the November 2022 inspection, Ofsted found that the early years learning sequence and its indoor and outdoor spaces were carefully organised; a cultural role-play space helped children explore diversity.

Outside, children use the nursery provision whatever the weather, with footwear suitable for climbing and running. PE also includes learning to manage clothing independently: changing for morning children, and removing shoes and socks for afternoon children in the half-term described. Physical activity comes with practical opportunities to do more for themselves.

Tapestry connects nursery learning with family life. Parents can view their child's individual learning journey securely and contribute experiences from home, giving staff and families a way to share what matters to the child.

Care includes a supervised toothbrushing programme delivered by trained Foundation 1 staff. It puts a everyday health routine into the nursery session. Speech and language support was also part of the early years provision in November 2022, with a specialist helping children develop communication from the outset.

For additional needs, the school has a SENCO contact route through senco@churchvale.notts.sch.uk. Families can also contact the safeguarding team at safeguarding@churchvale.notts.sch.uk, providing a direct route for concerns about a child.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Nottinghamshire County Council's admissions process and meet the normal application deadline.

Preparation for the next educational stage takes place during the summer term. The support includes an Early Years Transition Booklet and My First Day at School game, giving families activities to use together as they prepare for change. This preparation is separate from securing a place.

Morning sessions run from 08:45 to 11:45; afternoon sessions run from 12:15 to 15:15. To join the preschool waiting list, call 01623 842250. School tours and a conversation with the team can be arranged using the same number.

Wraparound care. Breakfast Club and Homework Club exclude Foundation 1 part-time children. Families using these nursery sessions therefore need another arrangement for care beyond their session.

Uniform combines a red cardigan or jumper with a white polo and black skirt or trousers. Joggers are permitted, and logos are optional. Clothing can come from any shop; the school also supplies second-hand uniform to families who request it. For outdoor learning, send a warm coat and footwear suited to active play.