Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy Nursery

Retelling stories, caring for birds and learning to fasten a zip give this nursery its character: early learning combines language, practical independence and attention to the world around children. The provision belongs to Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy on Woodland Street in Biddulph. Its Catholic identity reaches into nursery learning, with goals around prayer and making the sign of the cross.

Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Good following its inspection on 7 and 8 May 2025. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together children's learning and development. Here, the nursery's goals translate that into recognisable childhood activities: singing, asking questions, expressing feelings and playing alongside other children. These are aims for development, rather than promises that every child will reach the same point at the same time.

Language has several routes into the day. Children work towards retelling stories and recognising the first sounds in words, while role play and singing give them opportunities to express ideas. Writing goals include recording their thoughts and forming letters from their name. Pencil control sits alongside the practical task of managing a zip, connecting early writing with independence.

For mathematics, Nursery uses Master the Curriculum, linked to Development Matters and aligned with White Rose. The nursery aims for children to understand numbers up to five and use mathematical language in everyday situations. This gives families a concrete sense of the starting point for number learning.

At the May 2025 inspection, early years learning used both the classroom and an outside play area. Staff assessed children's starting points and chose activities in each space to suit their developmental needs. Nursery goals include moving confidently indoors and outdoors, caring for the local environment, baking cakes and preparing fruit snacks. Creative work includes using different materials and drawing a recognisable self-portrait.

Curriculum consistency. In May 2025, some recently revised learning, including in early years, was less secure. Further work was needed to make its impact consistent, a qualification families should weigh alongside the individualised activities.

In May 2025, early years children needing additional help received support that included advice from outside agencies. The purpose was to prepare them for subsequent learning, with children's developmental starting points informing the activities they received.

Digital care involves parents too. Nursery children receive education about using technology safely; parents sign the agreement on their behalf. Their use of school computer systems is monitored, and concerns about possible breaches prompt contact with home.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place or confer admissions priority. Families must make a separate application, and children are assessed against the same oversubscription criteria whether they attend the nursery or not.

For September 2027 entry, apply through the school admissions process of the local authority where you live, naming Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy. The deadline is 15 January 2027. A Supplementary Information Form must also reach the school by that date. Treat both submissions as necessary: familiarity with the nursery does not replace either application.

Nursery applications use a separate form returned to the school office. For enquiries, contact the office on 01782 512644 or at office@olognewman.co.uk.