Norfolk Community Primary School Nursery Review

Little Norfolk gives two-year-olds their own provision within Norfolk Community Primary School, with 12 places in each morning and afternoon session. Alongside it, Norfolk Nursery caters for three- and four-year-olds. This is a school nursery with a session-based day, rather than a single attendance pattern for every family.

The early years provision received a Good judgement at the Ofsted inspection of 21 to 22 June 2022. That judgement covers the school's early years provision; it is not a separate nursery inspection outcome.

Play and conversation shape the learning. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together children's learning, development and care. Staff observe individual children to understand their progress and plan support, so the focus includes how a child communicates and becomes more independent, alongside what they learn.

Role-play includes people who help others, giving children a way to explore adult roles through make-believe. Adults model language and talk through activities to help children put ideas into words. Children's questions also influence the curriculum, and they have time to pursue ideas through play. These are practical opportunities to practise speaking, make choices and try out solutions.

Norfolk Navigators gives this approach named aims, including Curious, Articulate and Resilient. In early years, children explore their surroundings and solve problems with materials; adults offer spoken feedback and encourage another attempt when something proves difficult.

In June 2022, early years learning placed a clear emphasis on communication and language. Children developed independence through purposeful activity and made good progress. However, beyond early reading, the early years curriculum did not connect sufficiently with later learning, interrupting continuity as children moved through school. This makes the connection between nursery learning and the next stage an important consideration.

Individual observations are paired with conversations with parents about children's development. Staff share important things they notice and work with other professionals to help children access additional support early. For families, this creates a route for discussing concerns while learning and care are being planned.

Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) made good progress in early years in June 2022. Practical support for home includes a visual timetable, Days of the week visual and Now and Next visual, which staff can print for parents. These give families concrete ways to represent routines and upcoming activities.

The safeguarding team can be contacted through the school office on 0114 2502760 or at enquiries@norfolkcps.sheffield.sch.uk.

A nursery place does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately for Reception through Sheffield Council's normal admissions process and meet the deadline for their child's entry year. Choosing nursery sessions therefore remains a separate decision from securing a school place.

If a child moves to another nursery or school, staff share information intended to support that move. This concerns continuity of care and learning, rather than an admissions advantage.

Morning sessions run from 8.30am to 11.30am; afternoons run from 12.15pm to 3.15pm. Families eligible for 15 hours can choose a morning or afternoon pattern at Norfolk Nursery. It also accepts children whose parents qualify for 30 free hours, with some additional sessions available through paid wraparound arrangements.

At Little Norfolk, eligible children can use 15 free hours through a three-hour session each day. Some paid places are also offered. Ask the school for current charges for paid provision.

For nursery enquiries, call 0114 2502760, email enquiries@norfolkcps.sheffield.sch.uk or complete the Nursery Enquiry Form for a callback. Application forms are available from the school office. At drop-off and collection, parking must leave residents able to access their homes and vehicles.