Lime Tree Nursery at Woodhall Primary School

Natural materials, muted colours and themed investigations give Lime Tree Nursery its character. This is Woodhall Primary School’s nursery in Sudbury, taking children once they turn three. The emphasis is on exploring, talking and using imagination, with classroom activities that give children something to investigate for themselves.

A session accommodates a maximum of 26 children. Across the morning and afternoon groups, the nursery can accommodate up to 52. It sits within the school’s early years provision, where spacious classrooms have a separate outdoor area. That gives the youngest children space for both classroom exploration and learning outside.

Themed weeks connect shared stories with practical investigation. Children listen to texts together, develop their understanding of what they hear and encounter new vocabulary. Learning Labs then provide activities through which they can explore the theme. The useful connection is between hearing words and putting them to work through conversation and discovery.

Within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), learning includes communication, imaginative expression and physical development. Here, expressive arts involve experimenting with materials and developing imagination. Movement and sensory play take place inside and outside, with opportunities to practise balance, coordination and the smaller movements children need for handling objects.

Outdoor exploration extends beyond the classroom. Lime Tree children participate in outdoor learning, and staff delivering those sessions have Forest School training. For a child who enjoys investigating their surroundings, this adds a different setting for discovery. Natural materials also feature indoors, while the nursery aims to create a homely atmosphere through its choice of colours and resources.

The nursery team comprises a teacher, a learning support assistant and a nursery nurse. Parents can speak with the team or send questions through ClassDojo, providing a direct connection between home and the nursery classroom.

For children needing additional support, Woodhall uses an Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle: needs are considered, support is planned and tried, then reviewed. Adjustments depend on the individual child. Woodhall aims for parents, children and staff to work together on support. This makes support a continuing process rather than a single decision.

The Meadows provides a Wellness Curriculum for children in early years and Key Stage One who need a bespoke route into education. Activities are planned around that provision, and assessment takes place daily. It is a distinct support option within the school, rather than the nursery’s standard programme.

Separate application. Attending Lime Tree Nursery does not guarantee admission to Woodhall’s Reception. Families must make another application through Suffolk County Council’s normal Reception admissions process and meet the relevant deadline.

The deadline of 15 January 2026 belonged to a past admissions cycle. Treat nursery enrolment and the later school application as separate decisions, even when you hope your child will remain at Woodhall.

Placements can be morning, afternoon or all day. Nursery opening hours are 08:30 to 15:30, with total weekly opening hours of 35. Provision also accommodates children with a 30-hour code.

Applications are made through the school office during school hours. Bring the completed form, your most recent Council Tax bill (or, if unavailable, your tenancy agreement or rent book), a utility bill, and your child’s birth certificate or passport showing their date of birth and full name. Prospective families can arrange a nursery visit by getting in touch. Contact the office on 01787 373661 or email admin@woodhallprimary.co.uk.