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Nursery at Tannery Drift 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Mud soup, scooter pathways and a song box give Ladybird Class its character: learning starts with things children can touch, make, say and imagine. This is Tannery Drift School’s nursery in Royston, taking children from the September after their third birthday until they move to Reception. Two teachers work alongside support staff and Early Years workers.
Ofsted graded early years provision Good at the inspection on 4 and 5 March 2025. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision rather than a separately inspected nursery. Vocabulary was a specific strength: staff helped children develop the language to express themselves and interact positively with other children.
Play supplies the starting point, with children’s interests shaping planned activities. Tea parties bring counting into pretend play; building resources prompt conversations about dimensions; sand, playdough and water let children investigate how materials feel and how much containers hold. Adults also lead small groups, with phonics activities and daily Rhyme Time. Sessions finish with the week’s story, followed by a farewell song.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) connects learning across seven areas, from communication and physical development to early literacy, mathematics and exploring the world. In practice, children count blocks in towers, compare weight and size, experiment with making marks and discuss stories they hear repeatedly. Daily maths activities add adult modelling to the discoveries children make through play.
Characteristics of Effective Learning shape the approach: adults encourage exploration, active participation and thinking through ideas. Independence is part of the learning itself. Children practise cutting and pouring, while preparing snacks introduces spreading and peeling.
Outside, bikes and scooters have their own pathways, alongside climbing equipment, a large sandpit and a mud kitchen. Children are encouraged outdoors in suitable clothing whatever the weather. Welly walks reach the school’s Nature Area, where they examine living things. These spaces give movement and observation a practical place in the day, rather than confining learning to a table.
Self-care develops through ordinary routines, including toileting and preparing to go home. Adults model friendly social behaviour and use play, discussion and stories to encourage persistence. Snack time combines food with learning about healthy choices and practising preparation skills.
Families joining nursery in September 2026 were invited to a parent meeting covering what to expect and staggered starting dates. School communications usually arrive by email through Arbor, giving parents a regular channel for information.
The school’s Inclusion Team includes a SENCO, a Family Support Worker who also leads mental health support, and an inclusion governor. Every classroom has a quiet area or nurture nook. The Woodland Room supports small groups and wellbeing work, while the Sensory Garden provides another safe space. Families can also access practical and emotional help through the Family Support Worker, including parenting and transition support.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. Hertfordshire County Council controls Reception admissions, with applications made through its online system; when places are oversubscribed, the council applies its admission criteria. Treat that application as a separate task from arranging nursery attendance.
The nursery offers the universal 15 funded hours and the 30-hour scheme. Families who are not eligible for the latter can purchase extra sessions or lunch clubs. Contact the school for current charges.
An Early Years After School Club accepts nursery children, operating Monday to Friday from the school day’s finish until 6pm in the enrichment room. This extends care beyond the nursery day. Requests for club places go to admin@tannerydrift.herts.sch.uk; nursery enquiries go to admissions@tannerydrift.herts.sch.uk. The school office can arrange a school visit.
The usual starting point is the September after a child’s third birthday. When capacity permits, a small number of Rising 3 places allow children to start in the term after turning three. Families should ensure children can separate with gentle support, follow simple routines, play alongside others and show early independence in self-care. Before applying, arrange a meeting with the headteacher to discuss your child’s needs.
Ladybird Class has scooter and bike pathways, climbing frames, a large sandpit and a mud kitchen. Children also take welly walks to the school’s Nature Area.
Yes. The nursery offers the universal 15 funded hours and the 30-hour scheme. Families who are not eligible for the 30-hour scheme may purchase additional sessions or lunch clubs.
Yes. The Early Years After School Club accepts nursery children and runs Monday to Friday from the end of the school day until 6pm. Request a place by emailing admin@tannerydrift.herts.sch.uk.
No. Reception requires a separate application through Hertfordshire County Council’s online system, within the normal application deadline.
