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Nursery at Elstree 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Woodland Wednesday gives Elstree’s nursery week a clear outdoor thread, alongside cooking, French and music. This is the school’s own nursery in Woolhampton, with provision for children aged two. It belongs to the Pre-Prep, which occupies a separate building in the school grounds. Nursery classrooms have direct access to the Pre-Prep gardens, putting outdoor space close to everyday learning.
At the November 2025 ISI inspection, the nursery comprised one class. The early-years findings describe purposeful teaching and attentive care, giving parents a useful picture of the provision rather than a separate nursery grade.
Play carries the learning. In November 2025, early-years activities developed early number skills, communication, reading and writing, with adults using questions to extend children’s curiosity. That is the practical shape of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) here: children build understanding through activities and conversation. Teaching in early years challenged children to use what they had learned in more demanding ways.
The 2026–2027 nursery timetable adds a distinct rhythm. Monday afternoon brings French; Tuesday morning has music, followed by Gym Jams in the afternoon. Thursday combines morning drama with afternoon music and dance, while Friday afternoon is for cooking. PE appears on Monday and Friday mornings. A family’s session choices therefore shape which activities their child attends.
Woodland Wednesday takes learning into the grounds. The November 2025 early-years findings describe children exploring nature through these weekly outings, alongside play in an indoor setting equipped with learning resources. The classrooms, adjoining gardens and wider grounds give the day several different spaces. Outdoor exploration has a regular place in the week.
Clear routines and careful adult support were strengths of the early-years provision in November 2025. Nursery children are supervised by teachers and teaching assistants, with additional staff accompanying classes to specialist lessons to maintain ratios. The school specifies one adult to five two-year-olds; for children over three, the ratio is one to eight or one to thirteen, depending on qualifications.
Lunch is included in the extended morning session; the shorter morning and afternoon options exclude it. Ducklings starts with a drink and snack, then children choose games or activities, with playground time when weather permits. It provides a gentler finish to the day. Collection is recorded with a parent or carer’s signature, and a member of staff trained in paediatric first aid remains on site during the club.
For children learning English as an additional language, the EYFS policy includes opportunities to use their home language in play alongside learning English. Parents must share medical conditions, allergies and special educational needs with the school so staff can assess the child’s requirements. Regular written progress reports provide a formal channel of communication.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Ask admissions to confirm the arrangements for moving from Nursery to Reception, including any required application and deadline.
The 2026–2027 options include five-day attendance and individual full days, both running from 8.15am to 3.30pm. An extended morning with lunch finishes at 1pm; the morning without lunch ends at 11.30am. Afternoon sessions run from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Full-time bookings take precedence, and every pattern depends on availability.
Eligible families can claim up to three funded hours per day in afternoon sessions, subject to the parental declaration and an entitlement code where required. Only hours actually attended can be claimed. Snack and specialist-session charges attached to funded afternoons are optional; ask the school for current charges.
Children aged three and over can use Morning Club from 8am to 8.15am and Ducklings after school, with collection options up to 6pm. Clubs require advance booking. Use the admissions enquiry form or registrar@elstreeschool.org.uk to arrange a private tour or Open Morning.
No. Ask admissions to confirm the arrangements for moving to Reception and any required application or deadline.
Full days run from 8.15am to 3.30pm. Morning sessions finish at 11.30am, or at 1pm with lunch. Afternoons run from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Full-time bookings are prioritised, subject to availability.
Children aged three and over can attend Morning Club and Ducklings. Morning Club runs from 8am to 8.15am, and Ducklings offers collection options until 6pm. Book clubs in advance.
Eligible families can claim up to three funded hours per day during afternoon sessions, with a parental declaration and entitlement code where necessary. Claims cover hours actually attended; snack and specialist-session extras are optional.
The 2026–2027 timetable includes Woodland Wednesday, French, Gym Jams, cooking, drama, music, dance and PE. Activities attended depend on the sessions booked.
