St Paul's Cray Church of England Primary School Nursery

Mud paint, small-group teaching and an emphasis on talking give this nursery its character. Children can start from age 2, with 26 places for mornings and another 26 for afternoons. The nursery belongs to St Paul's Cray Church of England Primary School on Buttermere Road, Orpington, and sits within a purpose-built early years setting.

Qualified teachers lead the early years classes, supported by classroom assistants. Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Good at the inspection on 11 and 12 July 2023. That judgement covers early years across the school rather than a separately inspected nursery.

A session combines activities children choose themselves with teaching led by adults and focused work in small groups. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides the curriculum framework: here, that includes conversation, practical exploration, cooking and learning outdoors. Children have opportunities to pursue their interests as well as work directly with staff.

Speech and language receive particular attention, with a speech therapist working alongside the school. In July 2023, children in early years were developing confidence in talking and listening. Early reading also starts in Nursery, while Music Express supports music teaching within EYFS. Classroom reading areas give children somewhere to explore books, making reading part of their surroundings as well as an activity with adults.

Forest School uses the school grounds throughout the year, alongside planned outdoor activities each day. A qualified Forest School leader runs the sessions. Children investigate small creatures using magnifiers and bug viewers, construct dens, balance on branches and logs, and create pictures from natural materials. Mud becomes paint. These are practical opportunities to explore, talk and play together.

Outdoor sessions have their own rhythm, beginning and ending with a song, with a prayer at the close. Children stay outside for the session and share a snack. Waterproof clothing is provided, helping them take part across different weather conditions.

Settling begins before the first nursery session. Staff make home visits for children preparing to join, allowing an initial meeting in familiar surroundings. Tuesday Stay and Play runs from 2-3pm for children from birth to school age with a parent or carer. Play finishes with music and a story, giving families a chance to get to know staff and other children before starting.

Communication includes photographs and observation notes about children's learning, with opportunities during the year to discuss these with staff. Home achievement boards also recognise what children do with their families. This gives parents ways to contribute to the picture of their child's development.

Support for special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is tailored following assessment by school staff or external agencies. It covers needs involving learning, communication, emotional health, physical development and sensory difficulties. The school works closely with a speech therapist, making language support a concrete part of this provision.

Food features in cooking activities and in Forest School snacks of biscuits and hot chocolate. Full-day attendance includes lunch supervision, which carries an additional charge outside the 15-hour entitlement.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through London Borough of Bromley Central School Admissions, following the normal application timetable. Treat that application as a distinct step, even if your child is already settled here.

The early years provision aims to help children move from Nursery into Reception. That educational aim is separate from the allocation of school places.

Morning sessions run from 8.45-11.45am, afternoons from 12.10-3.10pm, and full days from 8.45am-3.10pm. Attendance patterns are five mornings, five afternoons, or two full days plus a half day. Additional sessions for children aged 3-4 can be purchased when spaces permit.

Eligible 2-year-old funding codes are accepted, with paid sessions also offered for that age. Cooking has a separate contribution. Contact the school for current charges.

Nursery uniform is optional and trainers are permitted, but children need a bookbag. Forest School requires named Wellington boots; old clothes can be worn for those sessions. To arrange a nursery visit or request an application form, call the school office on 01689 821993. Admission also requires a Parent Contract and a copy of the child's full birth certificate.