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Nursery at Reed First 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Building, joining and experimenting give Reed's nursery its character. Children have materials within reach for making things, while early science includes exploring light and mixing ingredients. There is plenty here for small hands to investigate.
The nursery belongs to Reed First School's specialist Early Years unit, which takes children from 3 years old. The school is on Jackson's Lane in Reed, near Royston. At the Ofsted inspection on 18 and 19 October 2022, early years provision was judged Good within the school's inspection.
Learning follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, with Development Matters also used in planning. In parent terms, the focus includes children's communication, knowledge and practical skills, with their interests helping shape activities. In October 2022, adults supported children to express themselves confidently, and mathematical learning was planned carefully. That gives exploration a clear learning purpose.
Making starts in nursery. Children can choose creative materials, practise connecting pieces and build their own constructions. Scientific exploration combines activities guided by adults with ideas initiated by children: investigating darkness and light, reflecting light and watching what happens when ingredients are mixed. Vocabulary is part of this work, giving children words to explain their discoveries rather than simply watch them happen.
Outdoors, the school field can be used throughout the year when children have wellington boots. Forest School takes place on Fridays. Its activities encourage imaginative play, sensory exploration and practical work with tools, with the school aiming to develop independence and problem-solving. These experiences extend learning beyond indoor materials and into the natural surroundings.
Predictable routines matter for young children. In October 2022, established early years routines and straightforward expectations helped children feel secure. Emotional support also has tangible features: each class can use a Regulation Station, a space children may choose when they need time to settle their feelings.
The Colour Monster story helps children talk about emotions. A daily button placed in the class feelings bowl represents how a child feels, creating an opening for conversation. Calm Me time provides opportunities for quiet reflection. These are concrete ways to make feelings part of the day.
Food fits into the shared school routine. Early Years children receive free snacks; lunch can be a meal prepared on site, hot or cold, or a packed lunch brought from home. Children are encouraged to taste unfamiliar foods and practise using cutlery. Lunch is at 12.00pm, with children choosing where to sit together. Eating is followed by time outside until 1.00pm, so the shared midday routine includes both conversation over food and play. Families supply a refillable, transparent water bottle, and milk can be ordered through the office. Collection from classroom doors gives parents and teachers an opportunity to talk.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families make a separate application directly to Hertfordshire Local Authority, which coordinates allocation. When applications exceed available places, the Community and Voluntary Controlled Schools admissions rules apply.
Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as separate decisions. Apply again through the normal Reception process by its deadline, even if your child already attends Reed's nursery.
Up to 5 morning sessions per week are possible from the term after a child's third birthday, subject to funding, staffing and space. Children eligible for 30 hour funding may also attend up to 5 afternoons. Paid provision of up to 5 mornings and/or afternoons is possible in the term of the child's third birthday. Lunch carries an additional charge; contact the school for current charges.
Nursery applications go directly to the school, and a Nursery Enquiry Form provides an enquiry route. Tours can be booked by calling 01763 848304 or emailing admin@reed.herts.sch.uk.
Friday Forest School clothing includes full PE kit, with weather-appropriate extras such as waterproof trousers and wellington boots. Having outdoor clothing ready matters here: the field is used across the seasons.
Children may attend paid provision of up to 5 mornings and/or afternoons in the term of their third birthday. From the following term, up to 5 morning sessions per week are possible where funding, staff and space allow.
Yes. Children eligible for 30 hour funding may attend up to 5 afternoons alongside the morning provision. Lunch has an additional charge.
Forest School runs on Fridays, with sensory exploration, imaginative play and practical activities. The school field can also be used throughout the year with wellington boots.
No. A separate Reception application goes directly to Hertfordshire Local Authority, and coordinated admissions arrangements apply.
Call 01763 848304 or email admin@reed.herts.sch.uk to book a school tour.
