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Nursery at Tudhoe Moor Nursery 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Storybooks, small-group conversations and outdoor play give Tudhoe Moor its character. This maintained nursery school in Spennymoor specialises in early education, with a headteacher and deputy overseeing teaching and planning. The school describes capacity for approximately 100 children aged 0 to 5. Its organisation includes a Baby Room for children under two, Green Group for two- to three-year-olds, and four groups for older children.
This is a nursery school in its own right, so moving on means choosing a primary school. The daily emphasis is on communication and growing independence, rather than formal homework.
A key worker welcomes each child before play begins. Stories, rhymes and conversation punctuate the session, alongside time for children to choose activities themselves. Snacks are shared in key worker groups, and another group session explores numbers through songs and practical activities. Children attending all day also have lunch and topic time shaped by their interests. The pattern combines familiar routines with room for individual choices.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guides learning through play, movement and exploration, covering social development and physical skills alongside language, early reading and maths. Children practise choosing resources, solving problems and persisting when something proves difficult. Everyday independence matters too: putting on wellies, requesting a drink and asking for help are learning opportunities.
There is a reading area for sharing books, while the hall accommodates obstacle courses. Outside, scooters, trikes and bikes support movement; climbing A-frames develop balance. Outdoor play happens daily in all weather, with waterproof clothing supplied when needed. Forest School begins from age three, adding exploration of the natural world to the indoor and outdoor curriculum.
Daily story discussions encourage children to consider characters and predict events. A weekly library service extends reading beyond nursery, while the bedtime stories event brings children back in pyjamas for book activities and staff storytelling.
Teaching to consider. At the July 2024 inspection, Ofsted identified two weaknesses: learning goals were not always broken into sufficiently clear steps, and some adult conversations did too little to advance learning or language. These matter in a curriculum built around talk and play; staff training in both areas was required.
Each child has a key person who leads their group and builds a relationship with the family. Settling starts with Stay and Play visits: a parent accompanies the first, and a second visit can be independent if the child is comfortable. The admission pack captures medical information and allergies, helping staff prepare care around individual needs.
Tapestry carries photographs and videos between home and nursery. Termly consultations provide time to discuss progress, and half-termly Stay and Play invitations let parents join activities. The key person remains the first contact for concerns.
Hot lunches come from the Nursery Catering Company; children staying all day may alternatively bring a packed lunch. Dietary needs and allergies can be accommodated with substitute meals. Daily toothbrushing requires parental consent, and staff offer toilet-training advice, connecting care routines with growing independence.
SEND support uses an Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle with individual plans and parental involvement. A large meeting room accommodates discussions with several professionals, while ramp access, an accessible toilet and designated disabled parking support physical access. In July 2024, children with SEND received effective support, including specialist input, and safeguarding arrangements were effective.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately for primary school through the normal admissions process and meet the relevant deadline.
For children with SEND, transition arrangements include meetings with the receiving school so staff can prepare. Families are encouraged to visit their new setting where possible. This preparation helps information and relationships carry forward; it is separate from obtaining a place.
The nursery’s opening span is 7.45am to 5.30pm. Little Stars supplies breakfast and after-school care at an additional charge, with advance or flexible booking and existing school staff running the clubs. Breakfast includes a meal; the later club provides a light meal alongside activities such as baking and crafts.
Funding information describes 15 hours for all three- and four-year-olds, 15 hours for eligible two-year-olds needing extra support, and 30 hours for qualifying working parents. Early Years Pupil Premium is additional funding paid to the school for eligible children, with applications through the office.
Register interest using the Waiting List Form, or arrange a tour by contacting the nursery. Telephone enquiries go to 01388 436 000. Uniform is optional; suitable clothes for messy play and a coat are practical essentials. Collection is restricted to authorised people aged at least 16, with an optional password for added security.
The school describes provision for ages 0 to 5, including a Baby Room for children under two.
Children are invited to Stay and Play sessions to meet their key worker. Parents stay for the first visit; a second can be without a parent if the child settles comfortably.
Children staying all day can have a hot meal or a packed lunch. The Nursery Catering Company supplies hot lunches, with alternative meals for allergies and dietary requirements.
Yes. Little Stars provides breakfast and after-school clubs, run by existing staff. Booking can be in advance or flexible, and the clubs carry an additional charge.
No. Primary school admission requires a separate application. Transition meetings for children with SEND help the receiving school prepare, but do not secure admission.
