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Nursery at Decoy 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A daily story, a conversation with an adult and a vote on which book to read give First Steps Nursery a clear focus: helping young children find their voice. This is Decoy Primary School’s own nursery in Newton Abbot, serving children aged three to four. It combines early learning with the practical business of becoming more independent.
Language runs through the day. Songs, poems and rhymes build familiarity with words, while adults introduce vocabulary across learning activities. For a child beginning to explain an idea or join a conversation, those repeated opportunities matter.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together physical development, communication and children’s social and emotional growth. Literacy, maths, creative work and exploration of the world extend those foundations. In parent language, learning to handle tools, express feelings and talk to others belongs alongside learning about letters and numbers.
Maths happens through familiar routines. Register activities give children counting practice, and comparing votes for books helps decide the day’s story. Number rhymes and games using fingers make quantities tangible. Children also explore resources independently, with adults extending their thinking during play rather than reserving learning for a formal lesson.
Read, Write, Inc. resources support preparation for reading and writing. Children practise making marks and writing their names, while creative activities encourage them to experiment with materials and express their own ideas. Exploring nature and discussing differences between people add another dimension: children begin to connect learning with their own lives and the wider world.
At the January 2023 inspection, Ofsted found that nursery children received careful support with speaking and listening, and that early years staff developed communication skills skilfully. This gives a dated basis for the nursery’s emphasis on language.
Independence includes everyday care. Children work on looking after themselves, using tools and developing the hand control needed for a pencil. Learning about health and managing risk sits alongside physical activity, so growing confidence includes judging what they can safely attempt.
Emotional learning is equally practical. Adults help children recognise feelings, build relationships and work through difficulties. These activities support the beginnings of managing emotions and resolving problems with others.
For concerns about special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), parents can approach the class teacher or SEND co-ordinator. The school works with outside professionals and agencies, and aims for children with SEND to join learning and activities with their peers wherever possible. This gives families a route for discussing support.
Food is part of the separate Breakfast and After School Club (BASC) provision. Breakfast options include toast, cereal and hot food; snacks and drinks are offered during after-school sessions.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Devon County Council’s online primary-school application route, by the normal deadline. The local authority determines school admissions, so choosing First Steps and applying for Reception are separate decisions.
Families can register their interest through the online nursery interest form. General enquiries go to admin@decoyschool.co.uk or 01626 353282, and school visits can be arranged through the office.
BASC operates on days when school is open to children. Breakfast Club runs from 7:55am to 8:55am; after-school care runs from 3:30pm, with collection bookings for 5:00pm or 6:00pm. Staff escort nursery children between their class and the clubs. Younger children use the Community Room, with outdoor space and access to the school field in suitable weather.
Wraparound booking. BASC places require advance booking through ParentMail and are allocated in booking order, with limited spaces. Book early if these sessions are essential to your working day, and contact the school for current charges.
The nursery caters for children aged three to four.
Children practise through register activities, compare book votes, sing number rhymes and play games using fingers to represent quantities.
No. Families need to apply separately through Devon County Council’s online primary-school application route by the normal deadline.
Yes. BASC accepts nursery children, and staff take them to class after breakfast or collect them for after-school care. Sessions must be booked in advance through ParentMail.
Complete the online nursery interest form, or contact the school office at admin@decoyschool.co.uk or 01626 353282.
