Higher Failsworth Primary School Nursery Review

Choosing between indoor and outdoor activities is part of everyday learning at Higher Failsworth’s nursery. This is the school’s own provision within its Foundation Stage, with entry possible in the term after a child’s third birthday. Starting then may not be appropriate for children who need greater adult support. There are 39 places in each morning and afternoon session, including a maximum of 24 full-time places. Families can therefore choose a shorter session or a full day within the same setting.

Ofsted judged early years provision Good at the inspection on 10 and 11 July 2024. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery.

Play and teaching share the day. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines learning chosen by children with teaching for the class, smaller groups and individuals. In parent terms, this means developing conversation, physical coordination and relationships alongside early literacy, number, creative work and exploration of the world. Adults observe children’s interests and progress to plan their next steps, so activities can respond to the child.

Language starts with songs, stories and conversations during play. Adults ask questions, demonstrate language and help children take turns speaking. Counting games and songs introduce numbers; practical activities explore quantity, shape and position. Running, climbing and dancing develop larger movements, while paintbrushes, playdough cutters and small objects give children practice controlling their hands.

Read Write Inc. phonics begins in nursery, initially using sound games and oral blending and segmenting. Squiggle while you Wiggle links movement with early mark-making. These are concrete introductions to the sounds and movements involved in reading and writing. Books have a physical place too: every classroom has a reading area.

The outdoor learning area carries the same importance as indoor activities, and children can choose between them. Painting, sensory exploration, music and simple role-play give children further ways to express ideas. This makes the nursery day broader than preparation for formal lessons: children practise communicating through movement, materials and play as well as words.

One teacher and two teaching assistants form the nursery team. Children receive adult help to recognise feelings, practise taking turns and become more independent with dressing, toileting, eating and tidying. These everyday tasks are part of learning, giving care routines a clear developmental purpose.

Class Dojo connects families with the class teacher and the wider support team. Parents can send messages directly, although replies may take time during teaching; urgent messages should go through the school office by telephone. Teachers also use observations shared by parents when planning children’s learning, making communication useful beyond routine notices.

For additional needs, the school’s SENCO supports teachers with planning. Families can discuss a child’s support needs before nursery entry. The school also has a Sensory Room containing a bubble tube and tactile wall panel, physical resources within its wider provision for children with sensory and developmental difficulties.

Hot lunches are cooked by the school’s catering team, with a three-week menu rotation. Families choose school meals or packed lunches, and changes between these arrangements are made at the start of a half term. That calls for planning rather than switching lunch options each day.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Oldham Council’s website. For entry in September 2027, the deadline is 15 January 2027 at 5pm. Keep this application separate from the nursery arrangements, even when your child is already attending.

Familiarity is a different matter. Nursery and Reception classrooms have similar arrangements, intended to give children recognisable experiences. Transition meetings for children and parents explain what to expect when starting school. These support preparation; they do not replace the Reception application.

Morning sessions run from 8:45am to 11:45am, afternoons from 12:15pm to 3:15pm, and full days from 8:45am to 3:15pm. The part-time model is five mornings or five afternoons. Eligible working parents can use the 30-hour entitlement for full-day attendance, with eligibility renewed every three months. Paid full-time places are also offered; contact the school for current charges.

Nursery allocations are managed by the school. Families can register using a downloaded form or collect one from school, supplying evidence of the child’s age when returning it. September, January and April intakes depend on places being available.

For enquiries, telephone 0161 681 2645 or email info@higher-failsworth.oldham.sch.uk. The office can also arrange a school visit with a senior leader.