West Cliff Primary School Nursery

Conversation and learning alongside other children give Guppy Class its starting point. West Cliff Primary School’s nursery takes children from age 2, with provision continuing until the move to primary school, usually in the September after their fourth birthday. It is part of the school’s early years provision in Whitby, rather than a separate nursery setting.

At the Ofsted inspection on 26 and 27 April 2022, early years provision was graded Good. That judgement covers the school’s early years, rather than being a separate nursery rating.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum guides Guppy Class. In April 2022, nursery routines were established and activities encouraged children to communicate and interact with one another. For parents, the emphasis is on learning to talk and join in alongside other children.

Curriculum design in early years was strong at that point, but its connection with the learning that followed needed attention. Subject leaders had not considered sufficiently how early years learning linked to Key Stage 1. This matters beyond the immediate session: children’s next steps should build on what they already know.

Reading also reaches home. EYFS children can borrow Reading for Pleasure books and exchange them regularly, giving parents material to share with their child. Home activities may involve topics for conversation or extending something begun in class, keeping a connection between nursery learning and family life.

For children needing additional help, the school’s approach begins with the class teacher working with the special educational needs coordinator. Learning programmes are reviewed regularly, with parents kept informed. Support can take place within class or in smaller groups; outside help may involve the Educational Psychologist, Pupil Support Service or School Health Service. Parents can discuss concerns with the class teacher or coordinator.

An on-site kitchen supplies school meals, eaten in the dining hall. Vegetarian meals and diets required for medical reasons are catered for; a packed lunch is another option. Breakfast Club includes food and morning activities in the school diner, which gives families using early care a meal as part of that booking.

Across the school, staff receive regular training on recognising abuse. External doors are secured once children are inside in the morning and after lunch, and adults needing access during the day report to the office.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through the normal school admissions process and meet its deadline. The application route is North Yorkshire County Council’s school admissions service, which provides an electronic application form.

Guppy Class and Puffin Class work together within the EYFS curriculum. That collaboration provides continuity in the approach to learning, but it must be kept separate from the question of securing a school place.

Morning sessions run from 8.45am to 11.45am. For children aged 2, places are limited and offered in the morning. For three- and four-year-olds, funded sessions begin from the start of the term following their third birthday and can accommodate 15 or 30 hours across five days, with additional paid sessions subject to availability. Parents choose preferred sessions through a parental agreement in the welcome pack.

Afternoon sessions are available, with an extension to 3.15pm offered for children who have siblings in the main school. Confirm afternoon session and collection times with the school. Families using wraparound care can start with Breakfast Club from 7.45am; Ocean Fun Club runs from 3.15pm to 5.15pm. Club places require advance booking through the My Child At School (MCAS) app or the office. After-school bookings must be made by noon; places are limited and allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Applications can be requested by phone, email or in person, and families are welcome to look around. Contact the office on 01947 602 510 or admin.westcliff@yeat.co.uk. Ask the school for current charges. For collection by car, use the leisure centre car park permits available from the office; neither the school car park nor the road outside should be used.