Kitebrook Preparatory School Nursery Review

The Cottage and its own garden give Kitebrook’s nursery a distinct base: children can move between indoor learning and outdoor play, with weekly Outdoor Education adding a further connection to the natural world. This is provision for children aged three to four within the school’s Pre-Prep, in Moreton-in-Marsh.

In March 2026, there were two Nursery classes. The emphasis is on play, with activities chosen by children alongside those led by adults. Specialist Music and PE teaching adds different experiences to that balance, giving young children opportunities to learn through movement and sound.

Play provides the starting point for learning. Children have scope to follow their interests, while teachers introduce activities of their own. The garden belonging to The Cottage allows learning to continue outdoors rather than keeping it confined to a classroom. Weekly Outdoor Education encourages children to work together, try things out and tackle problems using their own ideas.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) takes practical form through conversation, early reading skills and hands-on mathematics. In March 2026, early-years teaching adjusted to children’s interests and needs, helping them participate and develop their understanding. Language learning included vocabulary and phonics, while practical tasks gave mathematical ideas a purpose.

Small routines matter too. Early-years children put away coats and wellies after outdoor activities, practising responsibility for their belongings. One collaborative play activity involved building a car for an imagined journey to a dinosaur world. Sharing materials and discussing how to build it gave children a reason to negotiate, take turns and explain their thinking. These are useful foundations for learning alongside other children.

Emotional development has concrete activities behind it. In March 2026, early-years children used yoga, circle time and regulation zones to practise managing feelings and supporting one another. Adults listened to children and encouraged discussion, giving them opportunities to express concerns as well as celebrate achievements.

In March 2026, communication with early-years parents was consistent and effective. Suitable adult-to-child ratios supported supervision, and safeguarding training included risks affecting the youngest children. Together, these findings give parents a picture of care built around both everyday attention and procedures for responding to concerns.

Lunch was included in the morning nursery session for 2024/25. For families considering that pattern, a meal formed part of the booked morning rather than requiring a separate afternoon session.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Confirm the Reception application arrangements and any deadline directly with Admissions before assuming that a nursery booking settles the next stage.

The Cottage accommodates both nursery and Reception children. That shared setting can make the surroundings familiar as children move on, but familiarity and admission entitlement are separate matters.

For 2024/25, morning sessions ran from 8:30am to 12:30pm, including lunch, and afternoon sessions from 12:30pm to 4pm. A full-time pattern comprised five full days. These are dated arrangements; ask the school for current charges before booking.

Sessions were booked ahead with Pre-School staff, with changes taking effect at the start of a term or at half term. Additional sessions depended on availability and were billed afterwards. This model favoured planning a regular pattern, while allowing extra attendance when space permitted.

To arrange a visit, contact Admissions on 01608 674350. General enquiries can also go to enquiries@kitebrook.org.uk. Perry Uniform is the school’s uniform supplier.