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Nursery at Hillside Specialist School and College
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
An early start within a specialist school defines Hillside’s nursery: provision for children aged three to four sits within Hillside Specialist School and College in Longridge. This is a school nursery, with the wider school’s specialist role forming its context.
Hillside’s specialist provision serves pupils with autistic spectrum disorder. For families considering the nursery, that specialist context matters alongside their child’s individual needs; the school’s age range or overall capacity should not be treated as the nursery’s own age range or number of places.
In March 2024, children in the early years were making a positive start to school. This is a finding about the youngest children themselves, rather than a conclusion borrowed from older pupils’ achievements. It gives parents a relevant point of reference when considering the nursery as their child’s first stage of school education.
An education, health and care plan (EHC plan) is in place for every pupil at Hillside. The nursery therefore sits within a school where these plans are part of the pupil context, rather than an occasional feature of provision. For a family, the child’s individual plan is an important starting point for considering the setting.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Nursery and Reception admissions are separate processes: families need to apply separately for Reception through the applicable route and meet the relevant deadline. Choosing the nursery should therefore be a decision about this stage of a child’s education, with the next placement considered separately.
Reception placement. Attendance at the nursery must not be treated as a secured place in the next year group. Families should keep the nursery decision and the Reception application distinct.
The school is on Ribchester Road, Longridge, Preston, PR3 3XB. For families planning travel, this is the location to use when considering the nursery alongside other arrangements for their child.
The nursery provides for children aged three to four.
Yes. It is the school’s nursery provision.
Hillside provides for pupils with autistic spectrum disorder, and all pupils have an EHC plan.
No. Nursery and Reception admissions are separate, and families need to apply separately for Reception.
The school’s address is Ribchester Road, Longridge, Preston, PR3 3XB.
