Coquet Park First School Nursery

Frogspawn in a woodland pond gives Coquet Park’s nursery children something real to investigate. This class for three- and four-year-olds sits within Coquet Park First School on The Links in Whitley Bay, with outdoor learning and contact with older children forming part of its character.

At the inspection on 1 and 2 April 2025, Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Outstanding. That judgement covers early years within the school, rather than a separately inspected nursery.

Forest School takes place at least weekly for nursery children. The school grounds contain their own woodland, and the wider staff team includes two qualified Forest School Leaders. Stories inform the outdoor activities, giving children a connection between books and the natural world they explore.

The pond provides a precise example of learning in action. In April 2025, nursery children investigated frogspawn while studying how frogs develop, confidently using words including froglet and tadpole. Observation and language work together here: children have something tangible to examine and the vocabulary to explain it.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning plans organise the building of knowledge across the year. Social and emotional development also has a strong place in early years, helping children prepare for later school life. Nursery participation in Fairtrade Fortnight has included football challenges and making artwork with Fairtrade flowers. These are examples of children joining wider school activities, alongside their class learning.

Nursery staffing includes class teachers and teaching assistants. Reading buddies add another connection: older pupils share books with nursery children, and this relationship was evident in April 2025. It gives younger children contact with familiar members of the wider school through a shared activity.

For families discussing special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the school’s SEND coordinator can be contacted at send@coquetparkfirst.org.uk. The SEND Information Report and Local Offer explain the school’s support, while North Tyneside’s Local Offer signposts services and organisations. Connect Mental Health Support Team resources include material specifically for EYFS parents, extending practical support beyond the classroom.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply again through the normal admissions process; the school follows North Tyneside Council’s admissions policy and requires a further application before a child starts Reception. Treat that application as a separate step in planning your child’s next year.

The September start is staged: children begin part time and move to full-time attendance within a week. Early Years staff work individually with children on new friendships and routines, alongside parents and carers. This settling arrangement is separate from the decision about admission.

A 30-hour nursery provision is offered. Zone4Kids provides childcare on site before school, from 7:45am to 9am, and afterwards, from 3:20pm to 6pm. Those additional periods can help families organise care around the nursery provision.

The school office handles nursery applications. Parents can register interest in a future place and will then be contacted to complete an application form. Visits can also be arranged by calling 0191 8143340 or emailing enquiries@coquetparkfirst.org.uk. A visit gives families an opportunity to see the setting before applying.