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Nursery at Dobcroft Nursery Infant 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Following a child's interests shapes learning in Ladybirds, Dobcroft's preschool for 3 and 4 year olds. The nursery belongs to Dobcroft Nursery Infant School on Pingle Road in Sheffield. Its aim is to build independence and confidence through exploration, with language and communication central to that work.
Ladybirds has teachers and teaching assistants. The emphasis is on helping children become willing learners: trying something unfamiliar, asking questions and working out connections between experiences.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guides the nursery's approach. In parent terms, learning includes having an idea, testing it and persisting with something unfamiliar. Staff use children's interests to shape activities, so curiosity provides a starting point for learning rather than a separate reward afterwards. The nursery aims to develop communication alongside resilience and resourcefulness.
Number work combines adult guidance with opportunities to practise independently. In EYFS, small groups work with a teacher or teaching assistant, then apply mathematical skills through ongoing play and learning activities. Daily Maths Moments add short sessions of 10-15 minutes, using songs, chants, visual prompts and objects to practise number ideas and vocabulary.
The Ladybirds room also accommodates DASH childcare for nursery and Reception children. During DASH, children can move between indoor and outdoor play as they choose. Dressing-up resources, materials for making dens and craft activities give that part of the day a practical, playful shape.
Settling starts before the autumn intake. During the preceding summer term, families are invited to explore the classroom together and meet staff. A home visit is also offered, giving the team a chance to learn about a child's preferences and family circumstances while parents ask questions. That creates an early opportunity to discuss the individual child.
Independence is practised through everyday tasks: managing a coat, recognising belongings, using the toilet and washing hands. Children are encouraged to ask for help, and staff assist when needed. For SEND discussions, families can contact the school's special educational needs coordinator at senco@dobcroft-inf.sheffield.sch.uk.
Children attending a full day have either a packed lunch or school dinner. Wednesday lunches are provided only for children attending for 30 hours, an important distinction when organising a split-week pattern.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Sheffield Primary Admissions, with a deadline of 15 January each year. Choosing Ladybirds therefore requires two separate decisions: the nursery arrangement now and the school application later.
Before children begin Reception, families are invited to a summer welcome meeting. They can meet class teachers, discuss routines and see the Foundation Stage classrooms. This is preparation for the next stage, separate from the allocation of places.
Two split-week patterns sit alongside full-time attendance. Beginning of the Week covers Monday and Tuesday, 9am to 3.25pm, followed by Wednesday, 9am to noon. End of the Week starts on Wednesday, 12.25pm to 3.25pm, then runs Thursday and Friday, 9am to 3.25pm. Full time covers Monday to Friday at those full-day times.
Wednesday handovers use the Cinder Path gate: collection is at noon for the morning group, while the afternoon group is dropped off at 12.15pm. Preschool follows the school academic year, including INSET days. For 26-27, additional flexibility is offered through the school office, alongside wraparound care between 8am and 6pm.
The split-week arrangements use 15 Free Early Learning hours; full-time arrangements include a 30-hour funded option and an option combining 15 funded hours with paid provision. The 30-hour offer requires HMRC eligibility confirmation; the place also depends on supplying a copy of your child's birth certificate and a cash deposit. Lunchtime supervision, school meals and consumables carry separate charges; contact the school for current charges.
To apply, return an expression of interest form to preschool@dobcroft-inf.sheffield.sch.uk or to the school at Pingle Road, Sheffield, S7 2LN.
Ladybirds preschool is for 3 and 4 year olds.
Yes. Beginning of the Week combines Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning. End of the Week combines Wednesday afternoon, Thursday and Friday. Full-time attendance is also offered.
Families are invited to a classroom visit in the summer term before starting preschool, and a home visit is offered before the autumn start.
No. Reception requires a separate application through Sheffield Primary Admissions by 15 January each year.
Full-day children have a packed lunch or school dinner. Wednesday lunches are provided only for children attending for 30 hours. Lunchtime cover and school meals are charged separately.
