Holy Trinity CofE Dobcross Primary School Nursery Review

Play, investigation and growing independence give Holy Trinity's Pre-School its character. Children can join from the term after their third birthday, and the intake is 26. This is the nursery provision within Holy Trinity CofE Dobcross Primary School, with the school's Church of England identity providing the wider context.

The Pre-School aims to make this first experience of school happy and secure. Its emphasis is on children becoming increasingly independent while learning through play.

Me and My World, Let's Build and Night and Light are among the loose themes that shape learning. These themes accompany opportunities to investigate, discover and solve problems through play. Investigation, discovery and solving problems are explicit parts of the Pre-School's approach: children are encouraged to ask questions and explore.

The curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage, or EYFS. Children in Early Years take part in phonics and writing sessions, and the school uses Little Wandle for phonics. These give children specific opportunities to work on early reading and writing alongside learning through play and growing independence. Themes also include Let's Grow, giving the year another named focus for exploration.

Outdoor play is part of the picture too. Children are asked to bring wellington boots during winter, while separate footwear is used indoors. That is a useful detail for families preparing clothes and shoes for the nursery day.

A teacher and a higher level teaching assistant have Pre-School roles. The nursery also has teaching assistants, giving families several staff roles to become familiar with. Working with parents is an explicit part of the Pre-School's approach, and it values their involvement and support.

For additional needs, the school has a SENCO and directs families towards Oldham IASS, POINT and Oldham's SEND Local Offer. These provide named routes for parents seeking advice alongside contact with the school. The school's stated aim is to support children whatever their needs or circumstances.

Attending this nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions process. Holy Trinity is a voluntary controlled Church of England school and follows the local authority's admissions route.

Preparing children for Reception is one of the Pre-School's aims, with independence a particular focus. That preparation concerns children's learning and confidence; it does not secure their next school place. Families should keep the Reception application separate from their nursery arrangements.

The school day runs from 8.45am to 3.15pm. Children should be in school between 8.45am and 8.55am, when classroom doors close; collection runs from 3.15pm to 3.30pm. These windows matter when organising the journey to and from school.

Breakfast Club runs from 7.30am to 8.45am, and After School Club from 3.30pm to 5.50pm. Pre-School children use the Pre-School space for both clubs. This gives families a named option for care beyond the school day.

Clothing. Pre-School uniform is optional. Choices include maroon jogging pants, a white polo shirt and a maroon sweatshirt or cardigan. Branded clothing is unnecessary, and families can use any retailer; Simply School Wear in Greenfield is another option. FODS, the parent teacher association, also runs a nearly new stall in the school entrance.

To arrange a visit, contact the school office on 01457 872860 for an appointment. General enquiries can also go to info@dobcross.oldham.sch.uk.