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Nursery at St Bede's Catholic 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Friendship and language shape the early years at St Bede's Catholic Academy: children learn to treat others kindly while developing the communication skills they need for learning. The nursery takes children aged 3 and 4 and forms part of the school's Foundation Stage in Stockton-on-Tees.
Ofsted's November 2025 inspection judged early years to be at the Expected standard. That judgement covers the school's early years provision, rather than giving the nursery a separate grade.
Two three-hour sessions give the day its practical shape, with a morning group and an afternoon group. Within early years, learning spans seven areas, and children develop the knowledge and skills appropriate to their stage. Language, behaviour and regular attendance receive close attention. Learning to be a friend is part of the experience from the beginning, so social development sits alongside classroom learning.
Phonics introduces children to letter sounds through structured teaching. A focus on spoken language also creates more opportunities to develop vocabulary and communication. There is a clear limitation to weigh: adult conversations do not consistently build on children's learning enough. Improving these exchanges, so children can strengthen their language skills, was the early years improvement priority in November 2025.
Preparation starts before children begin. Staff explain expectations to parents in advance, helping home and nursery establish routines together. The early years team also works with families to recognise difficulties and respond to individual needs. Children show consideration towards adults and each other, and their wellbeing receives attention alongside learning.
For children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), the school uses an Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle: identify the need, agree support, put it into practice and check progress. Parents contribute to planning, and the SEND coordinator oversees additional provision. Support plans have targets updated at least half-termly, with termly reviews involving parents.
Communication support may include Nursery Narrative, Early talk or Talk Boost, depending on the child's needs. These are possible interventions, rather than a programme for every nursery child. Across the school, teachers hold Qualified Teacher Status and teaching assistants have at least a level 2 qualification. The ground floor is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible toilet near the entrance, giving families concrete features to consider when planning support.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place and gives no attendance-based priority for September 2027 entry. Families must make a separate application to their home local authority, using its Common Application Form, by 15 January 2027. Keep that application separate from nursery arrangements.
Support for changing classes is a different matter from admission. For children with SEND, staff share information with the next teacher beforehand and discuss individual targets with the SEND coordinator. Children needing extra help with the move can receive a transition programme supported by the SEND coordinator and Parent Support Advisor.
Morning nursery runs from 8:45am to 11:45am; the afternoon session runs from 12:15pm to 3:15pm. These distinct timings matter when arranging collection or fitting nursery around work.
For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 01642 678071 or email admin@stbedesstockton.bhcet.org.uk. The school is on Green Lane, Stockton-on-Tees, TS19 0DW.
Children aged 3 and 4 attend the nursery.
The morning session is 8:45am to 11:45am, and the afternoon session is 12:15pm to 3:15pm.
No. For September 2027 entry, nursery attendance gives no attendance-based priority. Apply separately through your home local authority by 15 January 2027.
The SEND coordinator oversees additional provision, with parents involved in planning and reviewing support. Possible communication interventions include Nursery Narrative, Early talk and Talk Boost, according to individual needs.
Early years received the Expected standard judgement in November 2025. Improving adult interactions to extend children's communication and language was the early years improvement priority.
