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Nursery at St John's CofE 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Three indoor spaces, two outdoor spaces and a direct link to woodland give Next Steps Nursery its character: room to explore, with outdoor learning close by. This is St John's own nursery in Midsomer Norton, taking children aged 2 to 4 and sitting immediately behind the Reception classrooms. Provision is for 60 children. The nursery class is called Seedlings.
That combination makes the setting worth considering for families who want a school nursery with access to woodland, rather than choosing solely around the next admissions step. Next Steps says it values listening to children and their families, alongside treating them with respect.
Play and practical activity shape the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum here. Some experiences are guided by adults, with children working individually or in groups whose size changes with the activity and their development. In parent terms, learning includes conversation, physical movement, number work and creative exploration, rather than separate lessons alone.
Sorting objects, comparing shapes and counting introduce mathematical ideas. Programmable toys and computers give children opportunities to explore technology, while cutting, joining and folding materials develop practical skills. Role play, dance, art and music provide different ways to express ideas. Indoor and outdoor play both contribute to physical development, including the smaller movements needed to handle tools.
The woodland is a concrete extension of that learning environment. Forest School forms part of the curriculum across the school's classes, supported by staff trained as Forest School Leaders. Nursery Forest School lessons carry no additional charge.
At the March 2023 inspection, Ofsted found that the curriculum beginning in Nursery supported preparation for Reception, and that nursery children were developing foundations for reading through stories, rhymes and word practice. Children also learned to take turns and share, bringing the social side of starting school into everyday learning.
Lunch gives families a choice: send food from home, or buy a meal prepared by the school kitchen during term time. Purchased lunches are paid for in advance through School Grid. Nappies and sun cream do not attract an extra consumables charge, a useful distinction when weighing the practical costs of attendance.
For children needing additional support, the nursery links into the school's SEND arrangements. The school has a SEND coordinator and teaching assistants; support can involve speech and language therapy, occupational therapy or educational psychology. Parents are involved in reviewing provision, and permission is sought before a referral to an outside agency. This gives families a role in deciding the next steps, rather than simply receiving a finished plan.
Nursery attendance gives priority under oversubscription criterion 4, after the categories for looked-after and previously looked-after children, and the equal-priority category covering qualifying siblings and children eligible for Pupil Premium or Service Premium. It does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Bath & North East Somerset Council within the normal application timetable.
Familiarisation is a separate matter from allocation. Reception starters are invited to a Teddy Bear's Picnic and introductory sessions, while parents have an information evening. These opportunities introduce the people, surroundings and routines children will encounter. For children with SEND moving between classes, support includes information sharing with the new teacher, opportunities to visit and a Transition Booklet.
Next Steps operates throughout the year. It accepts government funding for two-year-olds, universal funding for three- and four-year-olds, and working parent entitlement funding. Funded hours are spread across the year, giving up to 12 or up to 24 hours weekly, as appropriate. Hours outside the funded allocation are charged; contact the school for current charges.
Breakfast Club runs Monday to Friday during term time, from 7.30am in the main school building, and is booked ahead through the Arbour Parent Portal. Suitable everyday clothing is acceptable for nursery, with an optional jumper supplied by Norton Sports & Camping in Midsomer Norton.
Visits can be arranged through the school office or nursery. For nursery enquiries, call 01761 205657 or email nextstepsnursery@stjohns.mnsp.org.uk.
Children aged 2 to 4 can attend. The nursery is on the St John's school site, behind the Reception classrooms.
No. Next Steps attendance gives priority under oversubscription criterion 4, but families still need to apply separately through Bath & North East Somerset Council.
Funding is stretched across the year, with up to 12 or up to 24 hours per week as appropriate. Additional unfunded hours are charged.
Yes. Families can send a packed lunch or purchase a school kitchen lunch during term time, paid for in advance through School Grid.
Contact the nursery on 01761 205657 or email nextstepsnursery@stjohns.mnsp.org.uk. The school office can also arrange visits.
