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Nursery at Palace Fields Primary Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Daily outdoor learning and resources children can choose for themselves give Palace Fields’ nursery its practical character. This is the start of the school’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) unit in Runcorn, with nursery entry from a child’s third birthday. Children move into the pre-school class the following September, so the provision has a distinct stage between starting nursery and applying for Reception.
The school aims to develop Kindness, Integrity and Tenacity from the early years. These values sit alongside an emphasis on independence and relationships: learning to manage small choices and getting to know other children are part of the purpose here.
Indoor and outdoor experiences are available each day. Inside, separate learning areas let children select resources independently; the school describes the indoor and outdoor environment as light and spacious. That combination gives children scope to explore, rather than making every activity depend on an adult handing out materials.
The EYFS brings together learning and care. Communication, physical development and managing emotions and relationships provide the foundations. Children also develop early reading and number skills, explore the world around them and express ideas through art and design. Playing, active involvement and thinking through ideas shape the approach. Staff observe children’s interests and development, then use those observations to plan activities with an achievable challenge. The intention is to respond to the child, rather than assume everyone develops at the same speed.
Early literacy has a named approach: Read Write Inc phonics begins in EYFS, with daily teaching and groups usually organised around individual assessments. Maths No Problem is also used in EYFS. Its approach starts with objects before moving to pictures and symbols, giving mathematical ideas a practical starting point.
In November 2024, children in the early years used their phonics to read simple words confidently and collaborated happily. These findings give a specific picture of early learning and relationships, rather than a separate nursery grade.
Relationships with families are part of the EYFS approach. The team aims to build respectful connections with children and parents, while praise, encouragement and celebrations help children develop a positive attitude towards learning. Recognising different rates of development matters here: observation informs the activities staff plan for each child.
For SEND enquiries, families can contact the school’s SENDCo. Halton’s Local Offer also provides advice and support, giving parents a further route for discussing additional needs alongside the school team.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Halton; joining the nursery and securing a school place are separate decisions.
The move into pre-school the September after nursery entry is an internal step within the EYFS unit. It should be understood separately from Reception admission. For families choosing the nursery as a longer-term school option, the practical consequence is clear: keep the Reception application on your to-do list even while your child attends here.
Two attendance patterns are offered: five mornings or five full days per week. These are regular weekly patterns, so parents can consider which fits their family’s routine. Eligible children aged 3–4 can receive 15 or 30 funded hours per week.
Nursery enquiries go through the school office. Families can email LConnor@pfp.theheathfamily.org.uk, and school visits can be arranged by getting in touch. Palace Fields is on Badger Close, Runcorn, WA7 2QW.
Children can start once they turn three. They move into the pre-school class the following September.
Children can attend five mornings or five full days per week.
Eligible 3–4-year-olds can receive 15 or 30 hours per week.
No. Reception requires a separate application through Halton, and nursery attendance does not guarantee a place.
Yes. Children have indoor and outdoor learning experiences every day, alongside learning areas where they can choose resources independently.
