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Nursery at Highwoods Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.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, books and conversation shape Holly class, Highwoods Academy’s nursery in Mexborough. These are the school’s youngest children, attending part time within its Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision. The classroom has an outdoor learning area, giving practical exploration space beyond the indoors.
The April 2026 Ofsted inspection judged the school’s early years provision to meet the Expected standard. That judgement covers early years within the school, rather than giving the nursery a separate rating. Children were comfortable talking with adults and other children, and settled happily into learning.
Children choose activities, with adults joining their play to develop conversation, relationships and understanding. Small-group work and class sessions add activities planned around children’s interests and needs. This gives the morning a balance between independent choices and learning together. The EYFS takes practical form here: children build communication and independence through play, supported by adult interaction.
Both the classroom and outdoor area contain resources drawn from everyday life. Books also provide starting points for themed Learning Challenges, including exploring what children can see through a window and imagining tea with the Gruffalo. Familiar experiences and stories give children something concrete to discuss and investigate.
Reading continues at home. On Mondays, children bring their book bags for a library book they select themselves; Wednesdays bring a Reading Journal task connected to that book. Read, Write Inc. phonics begins in the spring/summer term. Once children start the programme, book bags are needed daily, carrying a Sound Book and a sheet for practising the letter shape associated with the sound taught that day.
In April 2026, early years teaching used selected texts to develop vocabulary and understanding. Adults expanded children’s language and encouraged them to think further during conversations. Development checks informed the next learning steps, with opportunities to practise rather than simply move on.
Settling was a strength of the early years experience in April 2026: children became comfortable quickly and received attentive care. Adults identified barriers to development when children joined, then used continuing checks to shape support. For families whose child needs additional help, this connects early identification with the activities children encounter each day. The school also has a SEND coordinator.
Parents can contribute achievements from home to their child’s Learning Journey using Wow sheets. Some contributions appear on the Wow Wall outside the classroom. This gives families a direct way to share progress that staff might not otherwise see.
Apetito provides school meals, with advance meal selection through School Grid. Choices include a vegetarian meal, alongside other lunch options. Nursery meals carry a charge; contact the school for current charges.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions route and meet the normal deadline. Treat that application as a separate decision from choosing Holly class.
Learning continuity is a different matter. In April 2026, resources and adult interactions were planned with progression from Nursery to Reception in mind. This gives the learning a deliberate next step, while remaining separate from the allocation of a school place.
Holly class runs from 8.45am to 11.45am, with the gate opening at 8.40am. The morning session therefore requires collection before lunchtime, an important consideration when arranging work or other childcare.
Uniform follows the school colour scheme: royal blue knitwear, a white top and grey or black bottoms, with black footwear. Clothing can be unbranded, allowing families to buy suitable items from ordinary retailers. Label garments so misplaced items can be returned.
Visits can be arranged by contacting the school. For enquiries, call 01709 583273 or email admin-highwoods@empoweringmindsmat.uk. The school is on Highwoods Road, Mexborough, S64 9ES.
The nursery is Holly class, also described as Foundation Stage 1.
The morning session runs from 8.45am to 11.45am. The gate opens at 8.40am.
Children choose play activities indoors and outdoors, supported by adults. Small-group and whole-class learning sit alongside this, with books inspiring themed Learning Challenges.
Parents can add achievements from home to the Learning Journey through Wow sheets. Library books and Reading Journal tasks also connect nursery learning with home.
No. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route and meet its deadline.
