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Nursery at Wilcombe Primary School
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A refurbished preschool building gives Wilcombe’s youngest children a base of their own, with indoor and outdoor play forming the foundation of their learning. The preschool caters for children aged 3–4 and belongs to Wilcombe Primary School in Tiverton. Its nursery class is called Moles.
In February 2026, Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision to meet the Expected standard. This judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating. Staff helped children make a positive beginning, with learning arranged to develop skills and knowledge step by step.
Play combines children’s own choices with activities guided by adults. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together language, movement, relationships and emotional development with early literacy, maths, creative expression and understanding the world. For parents, that means learning extends beyond letters and numbers: talking, exploring and becoming more independent count too.
Indoor and outdoor learning spaces support this approach. The school also uses the surrounding community for learning, including park walks, local shops and community events. These experiences connect classroom exploration with familiar places beyond school.
Moles children have investigated flowers. In February 2025, nursery children celebrated Chinese New Year by creating a pretend Chinese restaurant and making dragons from handprints. Year 3 children also shared stories with the nursery. Role play, making and listening give the curriculum a concrete shape.
Across early years, February 2026 findings included chopstick activities that developed hand control while children explored the world. Vocabulary received deliberate attention, with new words introduced and then recognised in texts. These examples show how practical tasks and conversation can carry several strands of learning together.
Morning snacks include fruit, water and milk. Children practise peeling fruit and pouring drinks, turning snack time into an opportunity for independence. At lunch, families can send a packed lunch or choose a hot meal ordered that morning.
Toileting support follows each child’s stage of development, and changing facilities are available on site. This allows care to accommodate children who are still developing those skills. Across early years, daily toothbrushing also helps children learn about gum health.
In February 2026, early years staff understood children’s needs and adjusted support to help them progress. Parents could join phonics lessons to understand how learning was taught. The school’s wider SEND arrangements include classroom support, additional small-group work where needed and meetings involving families, teachers and the SENDCo. These provide ways to discuss a child’s needs and review their support.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through the normal admissions route and meet the applicable deadline. Wilcombe follows the Devon Admission Process.
Transition support is a different matter from admission. The early years team works across preschool and Reception, with children accessing learning environments in both settings. That continuity can make the next stage more familiar, but it does not secure an allocation.
Half days run from 9am to noon; full days run from 9am to 3pm. An early start is offered from 8.30am. These choices let families organise attendance around a morning session or a longer nursery day.
Three-year-olds have 15 funded hours of early education each week. Working parents may qualify for 30 funded hours of childcare. Funding can be shared between two settings, and extra hours beyond the entitlement can be purchased. Additional hours are invoiced monthly through Arbor and must be paid before attendance. Contact the school for current charges.
Nursery children use the main entrance, while collection is through the car park gate. To arrange a visit, telephone 01884 253025 or email wilcombe@thsp.org.uk.
Children can join from age 3. The preschool caters for children aged 3–4.
Half days are 9am–noon and full days are 9am–3pm. An early start is offered from 8.30am.
A morning snack includes fruit, milk and water. Families can choose a hot lunch ordered that morning or send a packed lunch.
Staff support children at different stages of toileting, and there are changing facilities on site.
No. Reception requires a separate application through the normal admissions process. Wilcombe follows the Devon Admission Process.
