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Nursery at Mills Hill Primary School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Choosing brushes, fetching water and pouring paint are small jobs with a clear purpose at Mills Hill: children practise doing things for themselves. Independence gives this school nursery its character, alongside conversation, stories and learning to share.
Mills Hill Primary School’s nursery in Chadderton starts from age three. There are 26 full-time places within the school’s early years provision. An EYFS team leader also holds an assistant headteacher role, placing early years within the school’s leadership structure. Ofsted’s report dated 14 April 2026 judged early years to be at the Expected standard; that judgement covers Nursery and Reception together, rather than a separately inspected nursery.
The full day runs from 8:45am to 2:45pm, with attendance expected throughout. Learning combines activities children choose with those adults introduce. Within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the emphasis here includes developing language, independence and the ability to work alongside other children. Everyday routines become opportunities to practise those skills.
Enquiring Minds, Caring Hearts gives that approach a recognisable shape. Its early years expectations include caring for belongings, considering other children’s feelings and helping prepare the classroom for learning. Children are encouraged to think about mistakes and try again. These are practical habits, useful both for managing their own play and sharing equipment with others.
Nursery topics include People who help, Minibeasts and Nursery rhymes. Stories also have a clear role: sharing books builds enjoyment of reading and helps children begin recognising sounds. Adults use conversation to broaden vocabulary, with particular attention to children with SEND or other challenges. Progress is checked and support introduced promptly when gaps emerge. The April 2026 report also required leaders to strengthen writing and spelling teaching across all phases so that delivery is consistent and effective. It did not single out Nursery as having weaker teaching.
The painting area provides a concrete example of independence in action. Children select their tools and prepare their own materials, giving them responsibility for the activity before the painting begins.
Settling starts with stay-and-play sessions for new families. Children can get to know staff alongside their parents or carers before starting, making the first sessions less unfamiliar. Early years staff build close relationships with families as well as children.
For additional needs, the school’s Spring 2025 SEN policy describes the Oldham graduated approach: assess, plan, do and review. Parents contribute their understanding of their child, while teachers and the SENCO review support. Visual timetables and a safe place in each classroom are school-wide provisions. The site’s accessibility plan also describes flat or ramped entrances and toilets with handrails, relevant practical features for families with mobility needs.
SEND support. The April 2026 inspection identified school-wide inconsistencies between statutory plans and classroom provision. Families whose child has an education, health and care plan should discuss how its recommendations will translate into daily support. This concern was not identified as specific to Nursery.
A nursery place does not guarantee admission to Mills Hill’s Reception. Families must apply separately through the normal Oldham Council process; Oldham Local Authority handles Reception admissions. Treat that application as a separate decision from choosing the nursery.
Transition support is a different matter. The Spring 2025 SEN policy describes Reception home visits, with visits to a child’s preschool setting where necessary. The SENCO supports staff welcoming children with additional needs. These arrangements help staff understand a child before the move; they do not secure admission.
Full-day commitment. The nursery policy specifies full-time places and requires eligibility for 30 hours of funded childcare, evidenced by the code from a Government childcare account. This makes the provision relevant to families who qualify and can use the full-day pattern.
For nursery enquiries, telephone 0161 624 1133 or email info@millshill.oldham.sch.uk. School tours can be arranged by contacting the school if a family cannot attend its open evening. The school’s nursery timetable confirms a 2:45pm finish, an important collection time when planning work or childcare.
The school’s nursery provision starts from age three.
The nursery policy gives a full day from 8:45am to 2:45pm, with children expected to attend throughout.
The nursery policy requires eligibility for 30 hours of funded childcare and evidence through a Government childcare account code.
New families are invited to stay-and-play sessions so children can become familiar with staff before starting.
No. Reception requires a separate application through Oldham Council’s normal admissions process.
