Walter Halls Primary and Early Years School Nursery

Five mornings or five afternoons give F1, the nursery at Walter Halls Primary and Early Years School, a consistent pattern across the week. This is provision for children aged three to four at the school’s Mapperley site on Querneby Road. The half-day model gives families a clear choice of routine, rather than a changing combination of morning and afternoon attendance.

For children taking a 15-hour place, the week follows the same session pattern: mornings throughout or afternoons throughout. Mixing the two is not an option. That makes the choice of session important for the family’s daily schedule.

Communication is a concrete part of the support for the youngest children. In November 2024, Ofsted found that staff helped them express their needs using suitable words, with pictures and symbols used for some pupils. These give a child another way to communicate when spoken language is difficult.

The same inspection required a closer school-wide focus on spoken language and checks on vocabulary learning. This was a school-wide improvement action, rather than a separate nursery judgement, but it matters alongside the support for early communication.

Ready, Steady Go sessions support children joining the nursery, with individual help offered by a Level 3 teaching assistant. This gives the start of nursery a named settling programme and a route to one-to-one support.

For concerns about development or wellbeing, the first conversation is with the child’s class teacher; parents can then speak to the SEND coordinator. Support across the school covers communication and interaction, physical and sensory needs, learning, and social, emotional and mental health needs. Families therefore have a clear starting point for discussing difficulties.

Accessibility has practical detail too. The school grounds include slopes and steps, while the main school areas are wheelchair accessible and accessible toilets are provided. Families with mobility needs should take that terrain into account when planning their visit.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Nottingham City Council, using the normal application route and meeting the applicable deadline. Online applications are encouraged.

Preparation is a separate matter. Children with additional needs can have transition booklets when moving between classes, and extra visits may be offered. These support familiarity with the next setting; they do not secure admission.

The 15-hour pattern is five morning sessions or five afternoon sessions. Confirm session start and collection times with the school before arranging childcare or travel. There are also 30-hour places for working families who meet HMRC’s eligibility requirements. Families must check their own eligibility.

Tuesday Stay and Play sessions provide a way to visit with your child, with a visiting window between 9am and 10am. Contact the office on 0115 9150045 or email admin@walterhalls.nottingham.sch.uk to arrange a visit. Registration places children on the waiting list; families unable to visit can collect and return the paperwork through F1 or the office.