Thurcroft Junior Academy Nursery Review

Imaginative play, purposeful conversation and growing independence give Thurcroft’s nursery its character. This is an unusual school arrangement: provision for three- and four-year-olds sits within a junior academy. The nursery is known as Foundations@Thurcroft, with the academy based on Green Arbour Road in Thurcroft, Rotherham.

At the inspection on 25 and 26 March 2025, Ofsted judged early years provision Outstanding. Nursery children learned exceptionally well and developed the concentration and independence to pursue their learning. For parents, the compelling detail is how adults helped that happen: staff joined children’s play and used questions to push their thinking further.

Play provides opportunities to imagine, investigate and solve problems. In March 2025, children benefited from activities designed to build communication, extend vocabulary and develop language. Enjoyment of reading was a priority. These are connected strengths: talking through an idea gives children practice in expressing themselves, while books offer another reason to listen and exchange ideas.

The EYFS approach includes activities chosen by children alongside those initiated by adults. Staff observe what children do and talk with them to assess their development across the learning areas. In parent language, that means learning is followed through play and conversation, with attention to each child’s developing skills.

Religious education is woven into nursery topics, stories and play. Art also forms part of Foundations learning, introducing basic skills and encouraging children to explore their surroundings creatively. Personal, social and emotional learning addresses friendships, feelings and independence. The day therefore includes learning how to relate to other children as well as developing language and ideas.

Starting nursery receives deliberate attention: in March 2025, preparation for the Nursery Year supported children’s next stage of learning. Emotional development also has a place in Foundations activities, helping children talk about feelings and distinguish acceptable behaviour.

Parents receive development updates through reviews in the autumn and spring, followed by an end-of-year report. Those conversations give families a regular opportunity to raise concerns and discuss progress.

For children with special educational needs or disabilities, the academy’s support structure includes the class teacher, SENDCO and Inclusion Team. Assessment begins on entry, including Foundation Stage, so additional needs can be considered early. Parents can contact the SENDCO by telephone, email or letter; concerns lead to further investigation, with families invited to contribute. When a child transfers elsewhere, the SENDCO passes records to the receiving school’s SENDCO, supporting continuity of care.

Reception applications are separate. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply again through the normal Reception admissions process and meet the applicable deadline. Treat choosing this nursery and choosing a Reception school as two decisions.

For nursery enquiries, contact the academy on 01709 543194 or email info@thurcroftacademy.org. Its address is Green Arbour Road, Thurcroft, Rotherham, S66 9DD.