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Nursery at Sir John Barrow 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Mud, soap suds and cornflour gloop give this nursery a distinctly hands-on character. At Sir John Barrow School on Argyle Street in Ulverston, play and conversation sit alongside structured early learning. Children can start in the term following their third birthday, joining nursery provision integrated into the primary school.
Ofsted graded early years provision Outstanding at the school's inspection on 1 and 2 March 2023. That judgement covers the school's early years provision rather than a separately inspected nursery.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines learning through play with adult-led work on early sounds, mathematics and physical skills. Adults join children's activities, introduce vocabulary and encourage them to attempt something new. Observation and conversations with families inform the activities staff plan, so children's interests and development help shape their learning.
Outdoor activities connect with what children are exploring indoors. Sand, mud and shaving foam provide opportunities to investigate textures and use their senses; waterproof clothing is supplied to help children participate while keeping dry and warm. The outside area extends classroom learning into practical exploration.
Structured learning takes place with the class or in smaller groups, depending on the activity. Big Maths and Little Big Maths provide a sequence of mathematical learning beginning in Nursery, breaking skills into manageable stages. This gives the play-based day a planned progression towards early reading, writing and number skills.
Stories also have a clear place. In March 2023, nursery children were absorbed in storytelling and keen to contribute familiar passages. The youngest children learned straightforward routines quickly, giving them a predictable pattern to follow as they became familiar with school life.
Getting to know a child begins before their first session. Families are offered a home visit to discuss interests, personality and development with staff. This provides time to explain additional needs and helps the team prepare support before the child starts.
A nursery teacher is listed within the teaching team. Parents can speak with staff at either end of a session about progress, concerns or achievements, making everyday communication part of the nursery arrangement.
For children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), assessment begins on entry, including through early years. Staff consider parents' knowledge alongside information from health professionals or a previous setting. Education Plans are reviewed at least twice yearly and shared with families; parents are also invited to termly discussions with the SENCo or class teacher. These give families regular opportunities to review support and next steps.
Physical access is addressed across the school building, which is mostly on one level and has wheelchair entry points. Adapted toilet rooms include adjustable changing beds, providing practical facilities for children with personal care needs. The school's safeguarding structure includes a designated lead and deputies as contacts for concerns.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through Westmorland and Furness School Admissions, following the normal application timetable. The nursery choice and the Reception application need to be treated as separate decisions.
For children with SEND, the SENCo can arrange extra transition visits between classes or settings. These support familiarity with a new environment; they do not secure admission.
Fifteen funded hours each week are offered to nursery children. Families can pay for additional sessions and lunchtime supervision, while wraparound care runs from 8am to 6pm for children attending the school. The longer care window gives families an option beyond their nursery sessions. Contact the school for current charges.
Nursery applications are directed through Westmorland and Furness School Admissions. The school encourages prospective families to visit. For enquiries, contact the administration team on 01229 483960 or email admin@sjbarrow.cumbria.sch.uk.
Children can join at the beginning of the term after their third birthday.
Activities outside connect with classroom learning. Sensory play includes mud, sand and cornflour gloop, and the school supplies waterproof clothing.
Families are offered a home visit before starting to discuss their child's development, interests and personality. Staff are available for conversations at the beginning and end of sessions.
Nursery children are offered 15 funded hours per week. Additional sessions and lunchtime cover can be paid for, with wraparound care from 8am to 6pm. Contact the school for current charges.
No. A separate Reception application is required through Westmorland and Furness School Admissions.
