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Nursery at Little Hadham 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Bridge building, woodland play and stories give Saplings its character. This is Little Hadham Primary School’s nursery class, part of the school’s Early Years Unit, with an admission number of 26 places. Children join in September in the academic year when they turn four. It is a school nursery with play woven into learning.
Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Outstanding at the inspection on 20 and 21 May 2025. That judgement covers the early years provision within the school, rather than a separately inspected nursery.
Purposeful play shapes the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) here. Nursery children follow the Birth to Five framework, with planned learning that connects language, physical development, relationships, early literacy and mathematics with creativity and understanding the world. In parent terms, talking, moving, making and playing are part of the learning itself.
Saplings activities have included making structures and patterns, building a bridge for the three billy goats and using that construction in imaginative play. Another activity involved drawing around children’s feet, cutting out the shapes and comparing their size with a giant footprint. These are concrete ways to explore mathematical ideas while practising handling tools and explaining differences.
Outdoor learning extends what happens indoors. Welly trolleys store footwear at school, and children need suitable clothes for outdoor activities. Forest School examples include Saplings and Ash making a balance beam together, building dens, drawing in soil and painting the shed. There is room for movement and making things, as well as conversation.
In May 2025, early years teaching gave particular attention to sounds and language through play and adult interaction. Staff used assessment to adjust activities and recognise additional needs early. For children, that means play has a learning purpose and teaching can respond to how they are developing.
Settling support can be tailored for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Families are invited to meet staff with their child, and professionals may meet to share strategies before the start. Changes to the settling period can be agreed with parents, followed by a teacher meeting to discuss learning and progress. This makes the family’s knowledge part of the preparation.
The Early Years team has trained in WELLCOM, as well as speech, language and neurodiversity. The class teacher is the first contact for concerns, with the special educational needs coordinator coordinating further support. Where an Individual Education Plan is needed, parents help review it each term, giving them a regular opportunity to discuss targets and adjustments.
The school meal service uses Hertfordshire Catering and a Pupil Choice system with three alternatives each day. This describes the school’s meal arrangement, rather than establishing a nursery lunch session.
Reception requires another application. Attending Saplings does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately through Hertfordshire County’s normal admissions process and meet the deadline for their entry year. Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as separate decisions.
For children with SEND changing class, parents are invited to meet the next teacher, staff share support information and a planning meeting takes place. A transition book can be provided if it would help the child. These arrangements support familiarity with the next class; they do not determine admission.
Morning nursery finishes at noon. That collection time matters when planning the rest of the day.
The school dress code is activewear with a branded top, and clothing should be labelled. Second-hand uniform is sold through the office. Families can ask the school for uniform assistance, with requests considered individually. In cases of financial hardship, second-hand items are provided free, helping families prepare the clothing their child needs. Together with suitable outdoor clothing, this gives families a practical starting point for preparing a child’s kit.
To arrange a visit, telephone the school office on 01279 771285. General enquiries can also go to admin@littlehadham.herts.sch.uk.
Children join in September of the academic year in which they turn four.
Saplings has an admission number of 26 places.
Morning nursery finishes at noon.
No. Families must make a separate Reception application through Hertfordshire County’s normal admissions process.
Speak to the class teacher first. The special educational needs coordinator can coordinate further support and discuss your child’s needs.
