Lowca Community School Nursery

Conversation and children’s own play give Lowca’s nursery its character. Three- and four-year-olds join the school’s EYFS unit, with a limited number of nursery places. The setting sits within Lowca Community School in the seaside village near Whitehaven, whose school building dates from 1884.

Ofsted graded early years provision Good at the inspection on 21 and 22 May 2024. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision, rather than a separately inspected nursery.

Adult teaching and children’s choices both shape learning here. Lowca follows the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework, combining activities led by staff, conversations with adults and play that children initiate themselves. In parent terms, learning involves both joining in with teaching and pursuing an idea through play. EYFS children use learning facilities outdoors as well as inside, giving exploration a place alongside taught activities.

Language has a clear purpose across the day. In May 2024, adults demonstrated vocabulary effectively, and children confidently used those words in different areas of learning. The benefit is practical: new language becomes something children can use beyond the activity where they first hear it.

Mastering Number is the named mathematics programme for EYFS pupils. Its focus is developing an understanding of numbers from the start. This gives families a specific learning approach to recognise alongside the play and adult interaction described in the early years curriculum.

Support includes an Early Years Assistant SENDCo within the school’s SEND team. Teaching is adapted to children’s individual needs, with assessment used to identify where additional help is needed. The school’s support covers learning, medical needs and social, emotional and mental health needs, so conversations about a child can extend beyond curriculum progress.

Toileting readiness is encouraged before children start, but care also accommodates children who are still learning or have additional needs. Lowca uses its Intimate Care & Toileting Policy when changing children. That makes the care arrangements relevant to families whose child needs help with this routine.

Lunch can bridge the morning and afternoon sessions. For children eligible for the fully funded 30-hour pattern, lunch supervision is included, while meals carry an additional charge. Lowca operates a nut-free policy because some pupils have nut allergies; families need to bear that restriction in mind when preparing food.

Regular parent meetings provide opportunities to discuss progress with the teacher and see children’s work. Weekly newsletters also share curriculum information.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet the applicable deadline. Lowca’s admissions are handled by the local authority, with applications made online through the council route. Keep that application separate from the nursery booking.

Term-time sessions run Monday to Friday: mornings are 8:45–11:45 and afternoons 12:15–3:15. The 15-hour funded pattern is five mornings, designed to maintain consistency in the class. Additional afternoons can be booked separately, and lunch between sessions runs from 11:45–12:15 with supervision and meal charges for that arrangement.

Government-funded attendance starts from the term after a child’s third birthday. Since January 2026, children eligible for the fully funded 30-hour arrangement can attend 8:45–3:15, including lunch supervision, with meals charged separately. Ask the school for current charges.

To apply, complete the CC Nursery Application Form and email it to admin@lowca.cumbria.sch.uk. Visits can be arranged by telephone on 01946 372656. EYFS children must be collected by an adult the school knows.