St John's Church of England Primary School Nursery

Stories, rhymes and outdoor exploration characterised St John's early years at the September 2022 inspection. This is the school's Foundation Stage One nursery in Reading, with entry in September, January or April following a child's third birthday, subject to space. Children can stay until their normal school admission. The maximum is 52 part-time places by the summer term's end; numbers admitted can vary between terms.

The nursery has a Christian ethos and welcomes families of other faiths and none. It asks parents to respect that ethos. Ofsted graded the school's early years provision Good at the inspection on 13 and 14 September 2022. That judgement covers early years within the school, rather than a separately inspected nursery.

In September 2022, language and shared play were clear threads in the early years foundation stage (EYFS): children built vocabulary, enjoyed books and learnt how to play alongside one another. In September 2022, teaching placed particular emphasis on language so that children could take part in learning, including those speaking English as an additional language. Stories and rhymes featured across the day. For parents, these are concrete examples of learning through listening, speaking and joining in.

Outdoor activity adds physical challenge. In September 2022, the early years space included trikes and a little forest area with a small climbing tree. Children could test their abilities and attempt unfamiliar experiences. Play also helped them practise sharing and taking turns, linking the outdoor space with the social skills needed in a group.

Starting nursery includes preparation before the first term. Children normally make two visits during the preceding term, with extra visits arranged when needed; families also have transition meetings. This gives children opportunities to become familiar with the nursery before regular attendance begins.

In September 2022, relationships between staff and the youngest children helped children feel settled and confident. That is a useful complement to the practical visiting arrangements: starting nursery involves both familiarity with the place and relationships with adults.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place and gives no priority under the 2027-2028 admission criteria. A fresh application is required even for children already attending the nursery. For September 2027 entry, apply through the local authority's coordinated admissions process by 15 January 2027. Reading's route is through Brighter Futures for Children, with the official offer coming from the local authority.

Keep the two decisions separate when planning childcare and school entry. Choosing this nursery is choosing its sessions and early years experience; the Reception application still needs its own place on the family calendar.

Attendance follows a fixed pattern: five mornings or five afternoons each week, totalling 15 hours. The nursery is not currently offering a 30-hour week. Families therefore need childcare arrangements that fit around a half-day pattern. A preferred session can be requested, but it is not guaranteed and does not affect whether a nursery place is offered.

Visits can be arranged in advance, and families may register interest from age two. For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 0118 9375540 or admin@stjohns.reading.sch.uk. Nursery applications use the school's own form, keeping this process distinct from the later Reception application.