Kingsway Primary Academy School Nursery Review

Play with other children, explore alongside an adult or spend time on an activity alone: choice shapes nursery life at Kingsway Primary Academy School in Widnes. Adult guidance sits alongside that freedom, and an outdoor learning space keeps exploration going in all weather. This is the school's own nursery, within its Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision.

Kingsway also offers provision for two year olds. The nursery team includes a teacher and a teaching assistant, while teachers and key workers support children across the EYFS. Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Good at the inspection on 13 and 14 September 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school.

Children choose some activities themselves; adults prepare and lead others. Staff demonstrate skills and help children take their next steps during play, so independent exploration has teaching alongside it. Activities take account of children's development and the ways they learn. There is room for social play and for pursuing an interest independently.

The EYFS curriculum connects early reading, writing and number work with language, movement, emotional development, creativity and learning about the world. In parent terms, learning extends beyond letters and counting to communicating, managing feelings and exploring ideas. Multi-sensory activities give children different ways to engage. Read, Write Inc phonics begins in nursery, introducing a named approach to early reading.

Books help shape the planned themes, but children's interests can redirect activities as learning unfolds. Outside, children use the nursery's outdoor space whatever the weather, making outdoor learning part of the provision rather than something reserved for dry days. In September 2023, the atmosphere from early years onwards was calm and organised, helping children concentrate.

Teachers and key workers support children's emotional development and wellbeing. For families with concerns about additional needs before their child starts, the SEND coordinator is the first contact. The EYFS team works with outreach specialists when appropriate to adjust provision and obtain specialist support. This gives early support a route into the child's learning day.

Half-termly curriculum overviews are shared with parents from EYFS onwards, giving families a picture of the learning they can support at home. Safeguarding training takes place for all staff at the beginning of each academic year, with further training during the year. In September 2023, children in early years felt secure and happy.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Halton's normal admissions route and meet the deadline for their child's entry year.

For the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, children already attending Kingsway formed the third oversubscription category, behind children in care or formerly in care and siblings. Treat that as a rule for that past cycle, rather than an assurance about a future application.

Transition support is a separate matter. The minimum Reception transition offer includes a school play visit, a home visit and a visit to the child's nursery by the Reception teacher. Extra meetings and visits can be arranged to suit individual needs, helping staff and families prepare together.

Session pattern. Morning nursery runs from 8:45am to 11:45am, and afternoon sessions are also available. The morning finish is an important collection commitment for families planning their day.

For enquiries, telephone the school office on 0151 424 5031 or use the contact form. School visits can be arranged through the office. Kingsway is in a residential area, and families are asked to park considerately to reduce congestion. Children who are late must enter through the main office and sign in.