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Nursery at Hotspur Primary 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Outdoor learning is part of the ordinary nursery day at Hotspur, with free flow access rather than a single fixed playtime. This is the nursery within Hotspur Primary School on Mowbray Street in Heaton.
Free flow provision gives children access to the outdoor learning environment throughout their time in early years. It makes the outdoor space a place for learning during the session, rather than somewhere reserved for a break. In January 2023, inspectors found that children could access curriculum areas independently.
In January 2023, Ofsted found that early years children grew in confidence through frequent interaction with adults and participated enthusiastically in purposeful, active learning. Staff enabled children to use the curriculum areas independently. For parents, that gives a concrete picture of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) here: children taking an active part in learning, with adults supporting their choices and involvement.
Social learning also featured in the January 2023 findings. Inspectors observed adults showing children how to share and take turns, with older nursery children helping younger peers. Nursery children were confident and at ease in school. These observations show how learning to spend time with others formed part of their day.
STEM Week adds a named example of early years involvement in school projects. The 2025 theme was Space, and an EY Space at Home Booklet accompanied the event. This linked the school theme with activities families could try together at home.
The Thrive Approach provides a shared framework for emotional development across Hotspur. Thrive-Online screening takes place each term for all children, with the information used to plan activities within teaching and class lessons. This gives social and emotional needs a regular place in planning.
Some children with additional needs receive a small group or individual Thrive plan. Parents are told when their child has an individual plan, giving families a specific point of involvement in that support. Parents and carers can also speak with Thrive Practitioners about the approach.
For SEND, the school identifies a SENDCo and Thrive Champion among its support contacts. Its inclusive teaching approach applies to every child, so support for additional needs sits within everyday teaching as well as the school's named support roles.
A separate application. Attending Hotspur's nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply again through the normal Reception admissions process and meet the relevant deadline. Treat choosing a nursery place and applying for Reception as separate decisions, even when both concern the same school.
Contact the school office on 0191 276 2762 or email admin@hotspur.newcastle.sch.uk for nursery enquiries. The office operates from 8:00am to 4:00pm, providing a direct contact point for families during the working day.
The Hotspur Bulletin provides weekly school updates, with earlier bulletins obtainable from the office. It gives parents another way to follow school news alongside direct contact.
Yes. Hotspur's EYFS provision uses free flow access to the outdoor learning environment.
In January 2023, nursery children were confident and comfortable in school, and older children enjoyed helping younger ones.
Termly Thrive-Online screening informs activities. Some children with additional needs receive small group or individual plans, and parents are informed about individual plans.
No. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process.
Telephone 0191 276 2762 or email admin@hotspur.newcastle.sch.uk.
