Haddon Primary and Nursery School Nursery Review

Counting objects, making music and learning to take turns give Haddon's Caterpillars their starting points. This is the school's nursery class, also called Foundation Stage 1, at Haddon Close in Carlton. Its curriculum connects early learning with practical skills: handling tools, expressing ideas and becoming more independent.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) organises learning across seven areas. For parents, that means language, movement and relationships sit alongside early reading, mathematics, exploring the world and creative activities. Activities build on children's existing experiences and are adapted to their age and development. Staff use observations and focused tasks to decide what each child should tackle next, so the next step follows the child's learning.

Conversation has a clear purpose. Children practise listening, answering questions and following instructions, while learning to explain their own ideas. During the April 2025 Ofsted inspection, early-years staff used questions and examples of spoken language skilfully to extend children's vocabulary. That gives everyday exchanges an educational role.

Practical work brings the curriculum into focus. Scissors and pencils help children develop control; counting objects and describing shapes connect mathematics with things they can handle. Looking at plants and animals encourages observation, while talking about family events introduces past and present. These are concrete starting points for understanding bigger ideas.

Creative learning includes role-play, experimenting with materials, singing and moving to music. Sharing and taking turns are learning goals too, alongside forming relationships and doing things independently. Early literacy includes noticing word sounds and developing pencil skills. In April 2025, nursery children were well equipped for the phonics learning that follows in Reception.

For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), the class teacher and SEND coordinator organise support together. Parents contribute their knowledge of their child to support planning and reviews. Individual support plans include targets reviewed each term, giving families a regular opportunity to discuss progress and adjust the next steps.

Support can involve Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy or the Early Years Schools and Families Support Services where a child's needs call for their involvement. More frequent parent contact can also be arranged according to individual need. Across the school building, a single-level layout, wheelchair access and an accessible toilet and shower provide practical support for physical access.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application to their home local authority through the normal admissions round, by 15 January. Nottinghamshire residents can apply online or by telephone.

For entry in 2027-2028, nursery attendance at the point of application gives priority under the sixth oversubscription criterion, ahead of other children in the seventh category. Five numbered categories come before it, including catchment residents. This is a limited admissions advantage, so families should keep the separate application deadline firmly in view.

Transition support is a separate matter. For children with SEND, planning may include meetings with parents and staff, extra visits and an individual transition plan. Information sharing helps staff prepare support around the child; it does not replace the Reception application.

Visits can be arranged by calling 0115 9523959. Nursery enquiries can also go to the school office at office@haddon.notts.sch.uk. The nursery is based at Haddon Close, off Westdale Lane, Carlton, Nottingham, NG4 4GT.