Stoke-on-Tern Primary School Nursery

Learning to share, take turns and manage feelings gives Stoke-on-Tern’s nursery its clearest character. Language and communication are priorities, alongside the social skills children need to join in with others. This is the school’s own nursery in Stoke Heath, near Market Drayton, with close links to its Foundation Stage class.

Early years provision was graded Good at the Ofsted inspection on 1 and 2 July 2025. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision. In July 2025, nursery children were learning the behaviour expectations of the Stoke-on-Tern Way, and many were developing the ability to handle their emotions. These are practical foundations for feeling secure and taking part in learning.

Play does much of the teaching here. Staff watch children’s play and use what they learn about each child’s development, interests and needs to plan the next experiences. For parents, that means play has a learning purpose: what a child chooses and how they approach it help shape what comes next.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together physical development, relationships and communication with early reading and writing, number work, creative expression and understanding the world. The emphasis on language matters across those areas, helping children express themselves and participate with others. Sharing and turn-taking are part of the learning too, rather than simply rules for getting through a session.

Outdoor time has a place in the day. Nursery children have an afternoon break lasting 15 minutes at 2.30pm; children are encouraged to use the outdoors except in the worst weather. A coat is therefore part of the practical preparation for play outside.

Tapestry, the online learning journal used in early years, gives parents a way to see their child’s activities and start conversations about the day. Families can also discuss concerns with staff. Under-fives receive free milk, and drinking water can be accessed throughout the day.

Additional needs sit within the school’s Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle. Parents take part in termly discussions about their child’s SEND Person Centred Plan and can arrange informal conversations with teachers or the SEND coordinator. This gives families a continuing role in reviewing support.

The school also has a sensory room with equipment and resources for sensory needs and emotional distress. Its purpose is to give pupils a space to use when they feel upset or overwhelmed.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. Shropshire Local Authority operates the school’s admissions arrangements; treat the nursery place and the Reception application as separate decisions.

Familiarity is useful preparation, though. The school says the links between nursery and the Foundation Stage class help children recognise staff, other pupils and the building. Before Reception starts, children are invited to taster days, including a chance to eat a school dinner or their own packed lunch with other children. Parents are contacted in the preceding term. Those experiences support transition; they do not secure admission.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 01630 638332 or email admin@stokeontern.shropshire.sch.uk. The school is on Rosehill Road, Stoke Heath, Market Drayton, TF9 2LF.

Collection requires a responsible adult. Classroom staff release children only once they are satisfied it is safe, and children are looked after if a parent is delayed. This makes adult collection an essential part of planning the day.