Fatfield Academy Nursery

Forest learning and growing independence give Fatfield’s early years their character. At the June 2024 inspection, children gained confidence, managed familiar routines and kept trying when activities became difficult. These are useful foundations for a child’s first experience of school.

Nursery provision starts at age three within Fatfield Academy, on Southcroft in Washington. A nursery teacher is part of the teaching team. Morning and afternoon sessions give the provision a clear daily structure, with weekly attendance of 15 or 30 hours depending on eligibility.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines learning with the everyday business of becoming more independent. In June 2024, children were learning to take responsibility at tidy-up time, while adults used questions to extend their understanding and adjusted help so they could complete challenging tasks. Persistence matters here as well as participation.

Beyond the classroom, early-years children made regular trips to the beach, forest and surrounding area. Planned experiences developed their understanding of nature. That gives outdoor learning a purpose beyond fresh air: children encounter the world they are learning about.

Past early-years activities show how stories can lead into practical investigation. The Three Little Pigs prompted children to build structures from sweets and cocktail sticks, then test them against a hairdryer acting as the wolf. Retelling the story involved expressive voices and taking character roles, linking language with making and testing.

Earlier outdoor work included planting seeds and scented plants in planters, using a water-play area and adding bird houses and a hedgehog house. These are examples of children engaging with living things and materials. Nursery children also take part in the academy’s annual careers week workshops, introducing different kinds of work from an early age.

Settling begins with relationships and familiarity. In September 2021, the opening week focused on learning about classmates, adults and the classroom. Children explored things that made them feel happy or sad, giving emotions a place alongside new routines.

Home learning support includes nursery parent guides for each half term, from Autumn 1 through Summer 2. These give families a nursery-specific route into supporting learning at home.

For families considering special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), support resources include Sunderland Local Offer, Daisy Chain Support Service and SENDIASS. These provide named starting points for exploring advice and family support.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place at Fatfield Academy. Families must make a separate application through Sunderland City Council’s school admissions service; the local authority handles the process for the academy.

Online applications receive confirmation by email. Families without internet access can use a council Customer Service point or request a paper application by telephone. Treat Reception as a separate decision and application, even when a child already knows the nursery.

Nursery doors open at 8.45am. The morning session runs from 8.50am until 11.30am; the afternoon runs from noon until 3pm. Lunch time is scheduled between 11.30am and 12.30pm. Eligibility determines whether weekly hours total 15 or 30.

Parents can register interest when their child is two by completing an application form. Registration takes place at the academy reception, with the child’s Birth Certificate. For nursery enquiries, contact the academy on 0191 416 6728.