Cheadle Hulme Primary School Nursery Review

Stories, songs and conversation give Cheadle Hulme Pre-School its clearest character. This is the nursery provision within Cheadle Hulme Primary School, on Cheadle Road, with an emphasis on helping children find words for their ideas. Language matters here.

At the Ofsted inspection on 18 and 19 January 2023, early years provision was judged Outstanding. That judgement covers the school's early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery. The nursery-specific findings described children becoming curious, confident learners through stories and carefully developed vocabulary.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) shapes learning. In plain parent language, it brings together talking, movement and relationships with early reading, number work, creative expression and discovering how the world works. These are connected parts of children's development, rather than a timetable built only around academic tasks.

Communication and language, physical development, and personal, social and emotional development form the three prime areas. Literacy, mathematics, expressive arts and design, and understanding the world extend that foundation. The balance matters: learning to express an idea and build a relationship sits alongside learning about words and numbers.

In January 2023, stories prompted children's interest, while singing and rhymes encouraged participation. Children wanted to discuss what they were learning. Early years staff developed vocabulary with skill and a clear teaching sequence, giving children a foundation for later learning. Teaching also included clear explanations and chances to return to important ideas.

Messy play has a practical place in the day too: the Pre-School polo shirt is intended to protect children's own clothes during these activities. Play with friends was another feature of early years life in January 2023, with children enjoying exploring the world together.

Children in early years settled promptly in January 2023. That is useful reassurance about the start of nursery life, while remaining a finding from that inspection period. Pre-School has a teacher with an MA Ed qualification.

For concerns about educational needs, the class teacher is the first contact. The school aims to personalise SEND support and works with families and outside agencies, making the teacher a practical starting point for discussing an individual child's needs.

Dolce provides the school's catering. Food is made daily in the school kitchen, dietary requirements are accommodated, and pupils may choose a packed lunch. SchoolGrid handles meal payments online. These arrangements give families a choice between school food and food brought from home.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process. For Stockport residents seeking September 2027 entry, the route is Stockport Council's online application, with a deadline of 15 January 2027. The local authority makes offers; the Laurus Trust is the admissions authority.

Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as two separate decisions. Joining Pre-School does not replace the later application.

The Pre-School day runs from 8.45am to 3.15pm. Children wear a logo polo shirt each day, with trousers, leggings or a school dress; a jumper or cardigan is optional. Label clothing with the child's full name.

For enquiries, call 0161 507 5400. Families considering Pre-School for September 2027 can book a school tour led by senior leaders. Upcoming dates include 13 and 20 October 2026, giving parents an opportunity to meet the team and see the school during its working day.