Little Brown Hare Pre-School at Erpingham

Two wooden shelters, a log-burner and space to play through changing weather define Little Brown Hare’s outdoor character. This is the nursery provision at Erpingham Voluntary Controlled Church of England Primary School, offering places for children aged 2 to 4. Outdoor learning shapes the setting itself, rather than being an occasional addition to a classroom day.

There is an important educational concern alongside that distinctive offer. In March 2026, early years was judged Needs attention. The school as a whole was placed in special measures; that is a school-level decision, not a separate nursery judgement.

Life outdoors has practical substance here. Children have two wooden shelters, with a log-burner inside one, and space for play in different weather conditions. Clothing needs to match the forecast. For families drawn to an outdoor pre-school, this means preparing for the elements as part of the ordinary day.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning includes exploring measurement, shapes, space and numbers through practical play. Early science encourages children to investigate, ask questions and think about their observations. These are hands-on ways of introducing ideas, with conversation woven into the activity rather than reserved for a formal lesson.

In March 2026, adults helped children extend their language through play, storytelling and conversation, introducing vocabulary as they talked. Children explored activities confidently and practised sharing turns and handling emotions. That gives the day a social purpose as well as a learning one.

The curriculum’s sequence remains the central weakness. Learning across nursery and Reception did not connect sufficiently to help children accumulate knowledge securely, leaving some less ready for their next stage. Work to address this had begun, but its effect on achievement remained limited in March 2026. Enjoyment of activities and confidence with adults should therefore be considered alongside the need for better-connected teaching.

Relationships were a positive feature in March 2026. Even the youngest children, aged 2, parted confidently from their carers and began their activities. Adults understood the children in their care, and children formed positive bonds with them. This offers reassurance about everyday separation, while remaining distinct from a formal settling-in programme.

Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities benefited from considered changes to activities as staff began recognising obstacles to learning. Adults also worked with families to help learning continue at home. These practical adjustments supported participation in the early years activities.

A hot lunch from the main school is available as a charged extra. Families should contact the school for current meal charges.

Attending Little Brown Hare does not guarantee a Reception place at Erpingham. Nursery entry and Reception admission are separate: families must apply again through the normal Reception application process and meet its deadline. Choosing the pre-school should therefore be a decision about the nursery experience itself, rather than an assumption that a later school place is secured.

Little Brown Hare opens from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Thursday. It does not open on Friday, an important consideration for families needing care across a five-day working week.

For all 3-year-olds, 15 funded hours are available. Access to 30-hour funding depends on eligibility and session availability; some families may qualify for funding for a 2-year-old. Those conditions matter when planning attendance.

An Expression Of Interest Form provides an enquiry route. Families can also contact the school office on 01263 761365 or email office@erpingham.norfolk.sch.uk. Weather-appropriate clothing is a practical requirement for this outdoor setting.