Morven Park Primary and Nursery School: Nursery Review

In June 2023, curiosity and early number work met in Morven Park’s early years provision: making maps of the outdoor area was one example of children learning through something concrete. The nursery is Foundation 1, or F1, within Morven Park Primary and Nursery School in Kirkby-in-Ashfield. The school’s starting age is three.

This is a school nursery with its own application process. Its identity sits within the school, whose stated aim brings together children’s individuality and belonging.

In June 2023, the early years provision gave children a positive start, with secure beginnings in number and phonics. These sat alongside an environment organised to encourage children to investigate, make choices and learn with increasing independence. For parents, the useful combination is early learning and opportunities for children to explore for themselves.

In June 2023, the outdoor area had a learning role. Children created maps of it and developed words for describing direction and position as they worked. That connects language to a place they can explore: a practical task becomes an opportunity to explain where things are and how they relate to one another. It is a concrete example of learning extending beyond an indoor activity.

Foundation 1 includes EYFS curriculum work, phonics and Mastery Maths. The June 2023 findings give those curriculum labels a practical meaning: early sound and number learning, curiosity and independence. The strongest picture here is of children developing foundational skills while using their surroundings to investigate and talk about what they discover.

In June 2023, children in the early years enjoyed learning and were happy. The environment supported independence as well as curiosity, giving children opportunities to develop confidence in doing things for themselves. Enjoyment matters alongside those early learning foundations.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately through the normal Reception admissions route and meet the deadline for their application year.

Nottinghamshire County Council controls the school’s admissions arrangements, while the nursery waiting list is handled through the school office. These are separate processes. Completing a nursery application should therefore be treated as arranging the nursery stage, with a further application needed for full-time school. For families hoping to stay at Morven Park, keeping that distinction clear is essential when planning the next step.

For a Foundation 1 place, contact the school office to complete a Nursery Waiting list application form. There is also a nursery enquiry form, providing another way to make initial contact.

Visits can be arranged through the office on 01623 459395 at a mutually convenient time. A visit offers families a chance to look around before deciding whether to apply. Nursery enquiries belong with the school; questions about the school admissions arrangements go to Nottinghamshire County Council. That division gives parents a clear starting point for each stage.