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Nursery at St Edmund's College
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Woodland exploration and an indoor swimming pool give nursery life at St Edmund's College a physical dimension beyond the classroom. This is the Prep school's nursery in Old Hall Green, Ware, for children aged 2–4. Nursery children use the pool shared with the College, bringing a substantial school facility into their early years experience.
Catholic identity shapes the setting, while families of all faiths and none are welcome. In November 2023, ISI found that early years children progressed well, with activities adjusted to their developing needs. That matters more than the scale of the wider school: learning responds to the child.
For children aged 3–4, families can choose a morning, an afternoon or both sessions. Families seeking a place for a two-year-old should confirm their session options with Prep Admissions. A morning runs from 8.30am to 11.30am; afternoons run from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Children attending both have a day extending from 8.30am to 3.30pm. These distinct patterns let families choose between a shorter session and a full school day.
The Early Years Foundation Stage here combines learning to communicate, developing physical control and exploring the world. Outdoor learning has substance. In November 2023, staff used the woodland and other outdoor spaces effectively to develop nursery children's confidence and movement skills. Early years children also explored how logs shelter insects, making care for the environment something tangible.
By July 2026, the early years environment included a secure outdoor play space with climbing equipment, trikes and large toys. Children could use a role-play theatre, work with sand and water, and practise hand control through painting and cutting. These activities exercise different skills: climbing builds strength, while handling tools develops finer movements.
The July 2026 material change inspection recommended approval of the proposed extension to two-year-olds, with curriculum adaptations planned around seasons and religious and cultural celebrations. That proposal concerned younger children's learning and accommodation, rather than a separate nursery grade.
Before children join, early years staff discuss their interests, medical requirements and dietary needs with parents. This gives the team practical information to use from the start. In July 2026, communication included written progress reports and termly conversations about children's learning and social development; staff also reviewed each child's development in regular progress meetings.
Medical support includes The Swan's Nest, the Prep's centre for first aid and medical care, with the College Health Centre also accessible during term time. Families therefore have an established medical provision alongside classroom care.
Lunches and some stationery are included in fees for each age group. A taster visit can include lunch in the Refectory, giving an applicant experience of a school meal as well as time with peers.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Reception applicants register directly with St Edmund's through the Nursery and Reception registration route. Following registration, applicants attend a two-hour taster in a morning or afternoon peer group; an offer depends on a successful session. Existing nursery families should confirm their child's progression requirements with Prep Admissions.
The practical distinction matters. Familiarity with the school is an experience your child gains through nursery attendance; it should not be treated as an admissions entitlement.
Funded sessions. The school offers 15 hours of nursery funding for afternoon sessions. Families choosing mornings or a full day should keep that afternoon restriction in mind when considering their attendance pattern.
Fees are payable before the relevant term begins, and extras are itemised on termly invoices. Ask the school for current charges when assessing the full cost of your chosen pattern.
Enquiries can go through the enquiry form or the Admissions team on 01920 824247. Private tours can be booked through the External Relations team. For a family visit, parking is available beside the Prep at the end of the drive on the left.
The nursery caters for children aged 2–4 and forms part of St Edmund's Prep.
For children aged 3–4, morning sessions run from 8.30am to 11.30am and afternoons from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Attending both gives a day from 8.30am to 3.30pm. Confirm session options for two-year-olds with Prep Admissions.
The school offers 15 hours of nursery funding for afternoon sessions.
No. Reception applicants use the school's Nursery and Reception registration route, with an offer dependent on a successful taster session. Existing nursery families should confirm their child's progression requirements with Prep Admissions.
Contact the External Relations team to book a private tour. Enquiries can also be made through the enquiry form or by calling Admissions on 01920 824247.
