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Nursery at Churchwood Primary Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Shared outdoor learning gives Churchwood’s Early Years Village its character: nursery children mix with Reception children from the start, making the next classroom part of their everyday surroundings. The nursery caters for children aged 2–5 and has space for 47 children per session. It belongs to Churchwood Primary Academy on Church-in-the-Wood Lane in St Leonards-on-Sea.
At the Ofsted inspection on 11 and 12 October 2022, early years provision was graded Outstanding. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery.
Play shapes the learning here. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum combines activities guided by adults with structured play, drawing on children’s interests, nursery rhymes and core books. That gives adults a starting point children already recognise, while leaving room to develop new interests.
A free-flow approach links learning indoors and outside. Children mix in the outdoor learning areas, and the nursery aims to develop independence, cooperation and relationships through play. The school grounds include a woodland playground, a large field and two acres of woodland. Forest School has its own site within the grounds and provides nature-based learning for all pupils, adding a different setting for exploration.
Language deserves attention alongside the outdoor space. In October 2022, nursery classroom provision was carefully organised, and early years learning placed a clear emphasis on communication. Specialist staff provided speech and language therapy from the beginning. For a child who needs help expressing themselves or understanding others, that makes communication support part of their early education.
Settling begins with a home visit, giving the family and nursery team time to get acquainted before learning experiences are planned. The nursery team includes a teacher who also leads the provision and coordinates EYFS SEND support, alongside practitioners, an Outdoor Learning Champion and a Speech and Language Champion.
Parents with concerns about development can approach their child’s teacher or key worker, who can involve the SEND coordinator. Additional support programmes, where needed, are reviewed three times a year. Parents receive specialist assessment reports and take part in discussions about support, giving them a practical role in planning their child’s next steps.
In October 2022, speech and language support was effective for children with special educational needs and disabilities, including those in early years. Lunch arrangements allow a packed lunch or a school meal, so families have a choice about food during the day.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application to East Sussex County Council using its common application form, rather than applying directly to the academy. For the past admissions round that opened in September 2025, the closing date was 15 January 2026.
Familiarity is a separate benefit. Nursery and Reception children share outdoor learning areas from their first day, and the EYFS Village includes overlapping sessions where they socialise together. These arrangements help children get to know the next stage; they do not replace the Reception application.
Morning sessions run from 9am to noon and afternoons from noon to 3pm. Families can also choose 8.30am–noon, noon–3.30pm, 9am–3pm or 8.30am–3.30pm. These options allow a shorter session or a longer nursery day.
Funded provision includes 30 hours for eligible two- and three-year-old working families, alongside 15-hour two-year-old and EYEE sessions. Funded hours are taken within the 9am–3pm core day, during term time only. The number of 30-hour funded places is limited, so availability matters when arranging attendance. Paid sessions and extensions are also offered; contact the school for current charges.
Visits are welcomed. For nursery enquiries or to arrange a visit, call the school office on 01424 852326 or email office@churchwoodprimaryacademy.org.uk.
The nursery caters for children aged 2–5, with space for 47 children per session.
Core sessions are 9am–noon and noon–3pm. Longer options include 8.30am–noon, noon–3.30pm, 9am–3pm and 8.30am–3.30pm.
Yes. Funding includes 30 hours for eligible two- and three-year-old working families, alongside 15-hour two-year-old and EYEE sessions. Funded hours are taken within 9am–3pm during term time only. There is a limit on 30-hour funded places; enquire with the nursery about availability.
No. Families must apply separately through East Sussex County Council’s common application form. Shared learning spaces support transition but do not replace the admissions process.
The partnership starts with a home visit so staff can meet you and your child and get to know your family.
