E-ACT Pathways Academy Nursery Review

An outdoor mud kitchen and stories told through actions give Pathways Nursery a practical, playful character. This is the academy’s own nursery in Longley, North Sheffield, with funded provision for children aged 3+ and up to 52 part-time places. It occupies a designated Foundation Stage setting alongside two Reception classes, putting nursery life within the school’s early years setting.

Ofsted graded the school’s early years provision Good at the inspection on 4 and 5 March 2025. That judgement covers early years within the academy; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Play and small-group teaching both have a place here. In the nursery classroom, children practise early phonics and retell stories with gestures, while adults lead focused activities with small groups. These give children different ways to practise speaking and take part in shared learning. Adult interaction also supports communication and relationships between children.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) takes practical shape through exploration, physical activity and growing independence. Outdoors, the mud kitchen gives children materials to investigate through their senses. Indoors, classroom activities sit alongside learning through play. Dressing themselves and helping put things away are part of that learning too: everyday tasks become opportunities to practise doing things independently.

In March 2025, children in early years had opportunities to investigate and learn inside and outside. They responded positively to calm adults and became familiar with everyday routines and expectations. For parents, that connects the play provision with the habits children need to take part in a group.

Settling begins with contact at home. A Foundation team member arranges a home visit to support the move into the setting. Families are asked about health and development, including allergies and difficulties with speech, hearing or sight, as well as family concerns and religious or cultural needs. That gives parents a concrete opportunity to explain what their child may need before starting.

For early years entrants with additional needs, the SENCO visits either their existing nursery or their home. Across the academy, children on the SEND register have individual support plans reviewed with parents three times a year. This gives families regular opportunities to discuss support and progress, rather than relying only on the initial conversation.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Parents must apply separately through their home local authority, including when choosing a school in another authority’s area. For September 2027 entry, the deadline is 15 January 2027. Nursery attendance does not confer priority in that admissions round.

Familiarity and admission are separate matters. Nursery shares the Foundation Stage setting with Reception, while support for EYFS starters includes a July open day to meet the new teacher and a gradual transition in September. Children needing extra transition support can have arrangements tailored to their needs. These practices support the change of setting; they do not secure admission.

Morning sessions run from 8:30am to 11:30am; afternoon sessions run from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. Parents can express a preference for either session or indicate that either would suit. The attendance time is discussed when a place can be offered, so a preference should not be treated as a confirmed booking.

Visits can be arranged through the school office. Nursery applications are returned to the office, and enquiries can be made on 0114 231 0044 or at pathwaysenquiries@e-act.org.uk. A visit offers a chance to see the nursery spaces and meet the team before applying.