Grange Park Primary School Nursery

The Glade, a botanical-themed library for the youngest children, gives books a distinct place in Grange Park’s early years provision. Play and practical exploration shape the learning, with adults combining children’s own interests with focused teaching. This is the school’s nursery on Swan Street in Sunderland, within its Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Good at its inspection on 1 and 2 November 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school, rather than a separately inspected nursery. The nursery included provision for two-year-olds at that time.

Children learn mainly through play and games. The EYFS brings together early reading and maths, communication, movement, emotional and social development, creativity and understanding the world. In practice, children have room to pursue an interest, while adults also guide particular tasks. The balance gives both child choice and teaching a place in the day.

Maths has a clear nursery structure. A plan aligned with Development Matters combines mathematical learning within everyday play with two small-group teaching sessions each week. Equipment in the maths area supports the learning being explored, so children can work practically as well as join a focused group.

Books and songs provide another thread. Core Books and Core Rhymes organise reading and singing across the year, while The Glade gives early years its own reading space. Floppy’s Phonics supports early reading across EYFS.

In November 2023, adults’ questioning and use of more demanding vocabulary developed children’s language effectively. The early years learning space was engaging and carefully designed. These findings give substance to the emphasis on conversation and practical learning.

ClassDojo connects classroom learning with home through messages, photographs and videos. New parents receive a code for their child’s class page after supplying an email address, giving families a direct way to follow what children are doing.

For children needing additional support, the nurture provision includes an afternoon EYFS/KS1 session. Speaking and listening activities help children express ideas and feelings; sharing, turn-taking and considerate play are explicit themes. A multi-sensory room is also used by children across the school. SEND enquiries go through the office to the SEND coordinator.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. Sunderland City Council handles September Reception admissions, with the school directing families to the council’s school admissions service.

Preparation and admission are separate matters. In November 2023, established early years routines helped children prepare for their next stage of schooling. Familiar routines can support that move, but they do not secure a place.

Monday to Friday, the morning nursery session runs from 8:50am to 11:50am; the afternoon session is 12:20pm to 3:20pm. These are two distinct session windows for families planning their day.

Nursery uniform consists of a royal blue T-shirt, black joggers, a plain black hoodie and black trainers, plus a school book bag. The Uniform Swap Shop supplies second-hand items on request through the office, offering a practical option as children grow.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 0191 5490707 or email grange.park.primary@schools.sunderland.gov.uk. The office directs queries to the appropriate team member.