Sandcross Primary School Nursery

Learning to retell a familiar story and learning to persevere belong together at Sandcross. Adults introduce new vocabulary, then help nursery children recognise how meeting an everyday challenge builds resilience. Language and independence give the provision its character.

The nursery welcomes children aged 3+ within Sandcross Primary School on Sandcross Lane, Reigate. In the inspection report dated 3 February 2026, the early years reached Strong standard. That judgement covers the school's early years provision, rather than giving the nursery a separate rating.

Play has a clear learning purpose. Children learn through play alongside planned activities, following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). In parent terms, this framework brings learning and development together with children's health and safety. Sandcross uses a topic approach in the Foundation Stage, connecting experiences rather than treating each area of learning as a separate compartment.

Communication gets sustained attention. Adults teach and revisit vocabulary so children can use new words when telling familiar stories. Questions help children think further, while sensitive support gives them confidence to explore. The emphasis is on children using language themselves, rather than simply hearing adults talk.

Activities available for children to choose are carefully planned to develop learning and independence. This gives play direction while allowing children to make decisions. Adults also use ordinary nursery experiences to explain resilience: tackling something difficult becomes a chance to understand perseverance. The February 2026 early-years findings describe purposeful, warm exchanges between staff and children, with nursery learning preparing children well for school. Those positive interactions also extend to nursery children attending wraparound care.

Relationships support exploration. In February 2026, adults in the early years responded well to the youngest children's needs, helping them feel secure enough to try things. Leaders worked constructively with families, and parents were positive about the support their children received.

Across Sandcross, additional support can involve an Individual Support Plan (ISP). This records learning targets, how help will be organised and how progress will be measured. Parents receive a copy and contribute their views at review meetings, giving them a defined role in planning support. Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Co-ordinators oversee work involving teachers, teaching assistants and external agencies.

The school also has Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSAs), whose work can address emotional needs individually or in small groups. Its physical arrangements include a single-level site, ramps where needed and accessible toilets. These are school-wide resources and arrangements. Arbor carries emails, texts and app messages, while families can raise questions with class staff at drop-off and collection.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Parents must make a separate application through Surrey County Council's admissions portal, following the normal Reception deadline. Familiarity with the school and preparation for classroom learning should therefore be considered separately from securing a place.

Three session options shape the choice: full-time 30-hour provision runs from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm; mornings run from 8.30 am to 11.30 am; afternoons run from 12.00 pm to 3.00 pm. Both shorter options are subject to availability, so families need to match their preferred pattern to the places offered.

Eligible families can receive an additional 15 hours of childcare. Eligibility must be checked and an application made before supplying the school with the approved code, which lasts for 3 months. Nursery enquiries go directly to the school office on 01737 245467 or at office@sandcross.school. School tours can also be arranged through the office.