All Hallows School Nursery Review

Forest School, swimming and dance give this nursery a day that extends beyond its classroom. Set in the centre of All Hallows School at Cranmore Hall, East Cranmore, the provision combines dedicated early years staff with access to the wider school's facilities. Children join in the term after their third birthday. Small teaching groups are part of the model, bringing the nursery into school life while retaining its own early years team.

Play shapes the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum: children develop their learning through exploration alongside activities led by adults. In October 2025, early years teaching developed children's independence and curiosity, with activities adjusted to individual needs. This makes children's interests a starting point for learning rather than simply a break between lessons.

Counting and spotting patterns become practical activities during play. Adults demonstrate language and create opportunities for children to talk with one another, connecting communication with shared activity. Children also practise using coins through role-play. These are concrete beginnings for number skills, conversation and independent choices.

Specialist teaching adds music, physical education and languages to early years learning. The nursery's activities also include dance, swimming and Forest School, with access to the school's nine-acre woodland. Outdoor exploration has a place alongside classroom activity, and early years children visit a local farm and library. For families choosing Enhanced Provision, specialist activities are included; under Basic Provision, children receive separate care during those sessions. That distinction changes the day your child experiences.

Settling starts with a nursery familiarisation session. Families can share information beforehand so staff can prepare for the child, giving the first session a practical purpose beyond introducing the setting.

Early years staff adapt learning to children's needs, and children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) were making good progress from their starting points in October 2025. Support also covers learning to recognise feelings, consider other children and cooperate during paired or group activities. Independence and social learning develop together.

Meals depend on the provision chosen. Basic Provision requires families to supply lunch, snacks and specified consumables, including wipes as needed. Enhanced Provision includes an onsite-cooked hot lunch with two courses, snacks, additional craft and cooking resources, an online assessment journal, parent consultations and written reports. It gives families a different package of daily care and communication.

Agency staff checks. The October 2025 inspection found that safeguarding requirements were met, but required assurances about agency staff suitability had not consistently been obtained or entered in the central appointments record. Leaders had identified the issue beforehand and took further action during the inspection. Families should weigh that school-wide concern alongside the early years findings.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Ask the admissions team to confirm the Reception application requirements and timing for your family. Choosing nursery should not be treated as securing the next stage.

Transition activity is a separate matter. Children registered for Reception attend several taster sessions before starting, and staff visit their existing nursery where possible. These opportunities build familiarity with the next classroom, rather than establishing an admissions advantage.

The nursery operates during term time only. Its class day runs from 8:25 to 16:05, with nursery attendance also offered from 8:20 until 16:30 at an additional charge. Families can discuss shift patterns or flexible working arrangements with the school.

For 2026/2027, universal funding covers 15 hours each week across any two days, using 7.5 hours per day. Eligibility can bring up to 15 additional funded hours across up to two further days. Enhanced Provision attracts additional charges for meals, consumables and activities; contact the school for current charges. Priority for nursery sessions applies to families indicating a long-term commitment to the school and those with siblings already in Reception or above. This concerns nursery sessions, not Reception admission.

Enquiries and private tours can be arranged through the admissions team on 01749 881609. Uniform can be bought onsite or online, with access to a second-hand shop arranged through the school office.