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Nursery at Thorngrove 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Two nursery rooms and daily specialist sessions give Thorngrove’s youngest children a base of their own and reasons to explore beyond it. Children can join from two and a half, and the nursery forms part of the Lower School at this independent school in Highclere. Mixed-age groups bring younger and older children together for play and learning.
At the ISI inspection of 11 to 13 June 2024, 34 children attended the nursery. That is an attendance figure for that visit, rather than a measure of available places.
Teacher input, independent play and planned activities share the day. EYFS Development Matters guides the curriculum: early learning covers language, movement, relationships, reading, number, creativity and understanding the world. Each week includes teaching across its seven areas, with carpet sessions and activities in the grounds followed by opportunities to practise through play. Topics connect activities around the natural world and community; visitors and trips add direct experiences to those themes.
French, ballet, music, Forest School and PE feature in daily sessions led by specialist teachers. This means children encounter different adults and teaching spaces as part of nursery life. Sports teaching starts here with qualified specialists. Phonics and maths resources are introduced within the Lower School, giving children familiarity with materials they will use as they progress.
Outdoor learning has substance. In June 2024, early-years classrooms and outdoor areas supported children’s choices about play and exploration, while regular woodland lessons included the nursery. Staff adapted activities to individual needs, and children made good progress from their starting points. Language developed through adults’ questions and demonstrations. A flower-shop role-play activity gave early-years children a practical introduction to buying and selling; stories explored cultures and family structures. These are concrete ways of connecting early learning with everyday life.
Several settling sessions welcome the youngest new starters after registration. That gives children repeated opportunities to become familiar with their surroundings before joining. The form teacher is the first contact for parents’ questions and helps children get used to friendships and routines.
Arc Pathways makes learning visible to families through photographs and observations linked to the EYFS. Termly reviews identify strengths and support needs, with learning journals informing written reports and twice-yearly parent meetings. Daily communication adds a more immediate connection. The nursery adapts its environment to children’s individual needs, while personalised challenges and additional support shape their next steps.
In June 2024, early-years staff knew children individually and used purposeful interactions. Required staff training and safeguarding requirements were met. Children practised sharing and taking turns, helped one another and settled into changes of activity. Emotional development was tracked through confidence, awareness of others and self-regulation. Care therefore includes learning how to manage the social demands of a group.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Ask the Registrar to confirm the arrangements for moving from Nursery into Reception.
Preparation for the classroom is a different matter. Nursery children begin using the school’s phonics and maths resources, and specialist sessions introduce staff beyond their nursery rooms. Those familiar materials and relationships provide continuity for children moving into the next year group; they do not establish an admissions entitlement.
Personal tours and Open Mornings can be arranged through the Registrar, with visits offered throughout the school year. An admissions enquiry form provides another contact route, and the school can be reached on 01635 253 172.
Stevensons supplies school uniform, alongside a parent-run second-hand shop on campus. These give families two purchasing routes. Refer to the school for current charges.
Children are accepted from two and a half.
Daily specialist sessions include music, French, Forest School, ballet and PE.
The youngest children are invited to several settling sessions after registration.
Families can access Arc Pathways learning journals, with photographs and observations. These inform written reports and twice-yearly parent meetings.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a place. Ask the Registrar to confirm the arrangements for moving from Nursery into Reception.
