Acre Rigg Infant School Nursery Review

Rhymes, stories and imaginative play give Acre Rigg’s nursery its character. Within Acre Rigg Infant School in Peterlee, the provision includes two-year-olds whose emotional and welfare needs receive close attention. This is an introduction to learning built around relationships as well as language.

Ofsted’s report dated 12 May 2026 gave early years the Expected standard judgement. That applies to the school’s early years provision, rather than a separate nursery inspection. Children settle readily, enjoy learning and show curiosity and independence in a carefully organised environment.

Language gives the day its direction. The early years curriculum sets out stories, songs and new words for children to encounter, while adults demonstrate language and build vocabulary step by step. For a young child, that means conversation is part of learning, with staff helping them put ideas into words.

In Nursery, rhyme and rhythm prepare children for reading. Stories also become material for acting and imaginative play, giving children a way to explore what they have heard through movement and make-believe. The nursery’s curriculum aim includes recognising sounds in speech, so early reading preparation begins with listening and language.

The early years foundation stage here combines that language work with creativity and learning to play together. Resources encourage children to use their imagination; children cooperate, share materials and practise taking turns. These everyday exchanges matter alongside the stories: they give children opportunities to communicate with one another and participate in shared play.

A calm beginning and familiar relationships help children settle. Staff get to know children before they start, making the move into the setting less abrupt. In May 2026, early years children responded positively to staff relationships, and parents felt involved and kept informed. For two-year-olds, emotional care is a specific part of the provision.

Additional needs can be discussed with the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO). The school’s support process includes reviewing assessments with teaching staff, monitoring children’s progress and providing targeted help where needed. Parents are encouraged to raise concerns, and Team Around the Family can support children and their families. This gives families a route to discuss learning needs alongside difficulties affecting home life.

Breakfast Club adds a practical food option for nursery-aged children. Through the Magic Breakfast partnership, breakfast takes place in the Dining Hall; the menu includes porridge, bagels and Weetabix, with water and milk. Staff accompany children to their classrooms afterwards, connecting breakfast with the next part of their morning.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. Acre Rigg directs families to Durham County Council for primary admissions. Treat choosing nursery and applying for Reception as two separate decisions.

For children with SEND, the SENCO’s role includes supporting transitions and working with other agencies. That support concerns the child’s needs; it should be considered separately from the allocation of a school place.

Nursery-aged children can attend Breakfast Club from 8:15 to 8:45am. It uses the main entrance and has a childcare charge; contact the School Office to arrange attendance and obtain current charges.

For nursery enquiries, contact the office on 0191 5864437 or email acrerigginfants@durhamlearning.net. The school is on Acre Rigg Road, Peterlee, SR8 2DU.

Physical access. The main entrance from the car park is wheelchair accessible, but stairs connect the building’s levels and access around the school is limited. Families with mobility needs should discuss the route their child will use before starting.