Windermere School Nursery Review

Mud, uneven ground and learning through play give Windermere’s youngest children an adventurous start. The Pre-School caters for ages three to four within the school’s Pre-Prep and Prep provision. Outdoor exploration is part of the learning itself: children handle natural materials, practise judging risks and learn to respect boundaries.

At the ISI inspection of 24 to 26 February 2026, the early years provision was judged to be securely managed, with an environment that supported children’s learning. Its appeal is concrete: space to explore, activities shaped around children’s interests and adults who watch how their learning develops.

Play provides the starting point for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning here. Teachers observe children and use what interests them to plan activities. That gives children a reason to engage, while allowing adults to build learning around their individual development. In February 2026, children were making good progress through this approach.

Outdoor school and dance exercises bring movement and communication into the day. Children develop relationships alongside physical confidence and independence. Adults introduce more demanding vocabulary in conversation and allow time for children to put their own thoughts into words. The benefit goes beyond learning new words: children practise expressing themselves and listening within shared activities.

The outdoor environment supplies practical challenges. Uneven terrain calls for care, while mud, foliage and other natural materials invite sensory exploration. Children showed growing confidence in handling these materials and sustained concentration during play. Boundaries give that exploration a clear structure.

Specialist teaching begins in the early years, with music and PE alongside French and art. Numbers and phonics are introduced in stages, and counting includes using coins. These are small, tangible steps into learning, alongside the physical and social development that outdoor activities support.

Support is built into the planning of early years activities. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive targeted help, as do those who need additional support with numeracy, literacy or thinking skills. Activities are adapted to individual needs, making participation and progress part of the same task.

Staffing also has a clear safeguard. In February 2026, the required ratios of adults to children were maintained throughout the early years provision. Older pupils help younger children in the outdoor learning environment, adding contact across age groups alongside adult support.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Treat Reception admission as a separate application, following the applicable admissions process and deadline. Learning continuity and admission entitlement are separate questions; becoming familiar with school life should not be treated as securing the next place.

A personalised visit can be arranged through the online enquiry form. The admissions team also takes enquiries at admissions@windermereschool.co.uk. This provides a direct way to explore the provision before choosing it.

For current charges, refer to the school’s fee information. The school has a fee schedule for the 2026-2027 academic year, applying from September 2026.