Greenside Primary School Nursery Review

Wellies for the garden, books chosen by the children and play in small groups give Greenside’s nursery its character. This is the school’s own provision for three-year-olds, with 52 places and capacity for up to 26 children in each morning or afternoon session. An enclosed garden connects directly to the nursery and Reception classrooms, making outdoor learning part of the setting’s physical layout.

Ofsted graded early years provision Outstanding at the inspection on 30 and 31 January 2024. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery. The early years curriculum was carefully organised and taught effectively, with children concentrating on activities alongside adults and other children.

Children’s own choices shape some of the learning, alongside play-based activities in small groups. This gives the day two complementary modes: space to pursue an interest and opportunities to work with others on a shared activity. The early years foundation stage takes shape through play: stories and rhymes build language, physical activities involve movement, and People Who Help Us introduces children to jobs in their community.

The enclosed garden provides space for outdoor education and play. Families send in wellies so children can use it through autumn and winter, and a coat is needed each day. Indoors, nursery and Reception children have used the hall for parachute games and taken part in a coached multi-skills session. Physical activity is described as a daily part of their experience.

People Who Help Us brings familiar jobs into nursery learning. Visitors have included a baker and a nurse; Nursery and Reception also met Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service. These encounters give children concrete people and work to discuss. A Gateshead Libraries visit brought stories into the classroom, with children joining in the words and actions of Shark in the Park.

Books also travel home. Children select a library book to take home on Tuesday, returning it the following Monday. A rhyme accompanies the home learning journal, giving families a regular connection with nursery learning.

Home learning journals make communication a two-way routine. Parents complete a page each week about something their child enjoyed or learnt at home; journals go out on Tuesday and come back on Monday. Questions and concerns can be raised through the school office.

In January 2024, early years children received support tailored closely to their needs and sustained their attention during activities. For families discussing special educational needs or disabilities, the school office provides access to the SEND coordinators. The school’s accessibility features include ramps, a lift and an accessible toilet, supporting access for children with physical difficulties.

For children staying for lunch, Gateshead School Meals Service cooks on site. Families can alternate between school meals and packed lunches, with meal payments handled through Arbor. Packed lunches must exclude nuts and eggs because of allergies. Drinking water is available throughout the day, and teaching assistants and lunchtime supervisors oversee lunch. Send spare clothing, including underwear, in a labelled bag to keep at nursery.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Gateshead Council; for entry in September 2027, the deadline is 15 January 2027. Treat this as a separate decision and application even if your child already attends nursery.

Shared experiences can provide familiarity with Reception children. The two groups have joined in physical activities and a Christmas Crafternoon with family members, while their classrooms connect to the enclosed garden. These are useful points of continuity, separate from the allocation of school places.

The funded offer runs over 38 term-time weeks, with no stretched arrangement. From the term after their third birthday, children can take 15 hours as five mornings or a two-and-a-half-day pattern. Morning sessions run from 8:55am to 11:55am. Eligible working parents can access 30 hours through five full days, from 8:55am to 2:55pm. Children are expected to attend their complete funded pattern, so families should plan around fixed attendance rather than occasional sessions.

Nursery uses the lower yard doors, which open at 8:50am and close at 8:55am. Label jumpers and keep a blue book bag ready for the book-return routine. Contact the school office to register interest or arrange a bespoke tour. Ask the school for current lunch charges when planning a full-day place.