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Nursery at Kelford 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Communication starts before words at Kelford: the early years curriculum gives attention to both intentional communication and the earlier signals children make. That focus shapes provision around individual development. The nursery belongs to Kelford School in Kimberworth, Rotherham, a special school with provision for children aged two. In May 2024, a small group attended its early years unit; no two-year-olds were on roll at that time.
Circle time gives learning a shared starting point. At the inspection on 21 and 22 May 2024, younger children, including those in early years, began learning with a song, rhyme or game. These short group activities helped prepare them for learning. The emphasis was on readiness to participate.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum concentrates on the skills children need before later learning can develop. Development Matters and the Early Support Developmental Journal Framework guide an interactive curriculum, with each child's strengths and needs shaping their experiences. Communication receives explicit attention, including the stage before a child deliberately sends a message. For parents, this means the curriculum recognises development that comes before speech as well as more intentional communication.
In May 2024, the indoor learning space offered activities children could use by themselves or with adult help. This allowed supported participation alongside opportunities to act independently. Outside, large play equipment encouraged movement, but children with mobility difficulties had restricted access and fewer opportunities to play independently.
Outdoor accessibility. The May 2024 improvement action called for fuller participation in outdoor activities for children with physical disabilities, both independently and with assistance. Access to the play equipment is a material consideration for families whose child needs physical support.
Support extends beyond the classroom through school teams. Inclusion & Intervention has specialisms in communication, visual impairment, bilingual support and advice about sleep and Thera play. Its remit includes families and class teams as well as children, creating a route for support across home and school.
The Positive Behaviour Support Team works with families and staff on personalised plans for pupils facing social, emotional or behavioural barriers to learning. Family training can cover attachment, sleep and behaviour support. These are school support arrangements, rather than a separate nursery care programme.
Lunch is provided by the school kitchen team. Menus rotate over three weeks, and meals meet nutritional standards. Dietary needs, including gluten-free diets, are accommodated. The kitchen team also works with parents, carers and class teams around children's lunches, so food preferences and dietary requirements can be part of that discussion.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application for Reception through the applicable admissions route and meet its deadline. Treat choosing the nursery and obtaining the next school place as separate decisions.
Kelford School is on Oakdale Road, Kimberworth, Rotherham, S61 2NU. Nursery enquiries can go through the school: telephone 01709 512088 or email kelfordschool@nexusmat.org. These provide direct contact with the school team.
Yes. Kelford has provision for two-year-olds, although none were on roll at the May 2024 inspection.
Development Matters and the Early Support Developmental Journal Framework guide the interactive curriculum. Individual strengths, needs and early communication shape the learning experiences.
In May 2024, children with mobility difficulties had limited access to the large outdoor equipment, reducing opportunities for independent play. The improvement action called for fuller participation with assistance and independently.
No. Reception admission requires a separate application through the applicable route by its deadline.
Telephone 01709 512088 or email kelfordschool@nexusmat.org.
