Witney Community Primary School Nursery

A garden shared with Reception gives this nursery a clear place within Witney Community Primary School’s early years provision. The nursery class caters for children aged 2–4, with entry possible from the term after a child turns two. It is a school nursery with a separate application process for the next stage.

Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Good at the inspection on 3 and 4 July 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery inspection outcome.

Language is a clear teaching focus. In July 2023, early years learning was carefully planned to develop children’s understanding of language and the skills needed for later learning. For parents, the useful emphasis is on building understanding, rather than simply completing activities.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings the nursery and Reception classes into the same part of the school. Their shared garden supplies an outdoor space alongside the nursery classroom and a physical connection between the two stages. Familiarity with that space is distinct from entitlement to a school place.

Behaviour expectations begin in early years. In July 2023, these expectations helped children attempt learning with confidence. Emotional understanding also has a named approach: Zones of Regulation. Children have regular opportunities during the day to recognise their feelings, put those feelings into words and learn ways to respond. This gives adults and children a common language for discussing emotions.

For children starting nursery with SEND, the special educational needs coordinators discuss individual needs and arrange a transition plan. That makes the child’s support needs part of preparation for starting, rather than something left until afterwards.

An Inclusion Assistant works alongside the SEND coordinator. Class teachers and teaching partners also have defined responsibilities: teachers plan support and monitor progress, while teaching partners carry out planned activities with individual children or groups. Parents participate in identifying needs and reviewing provision. SEND support reviews take place at least three times a year, giving families repeated opportunities to discuss concerns and agree the next steps.

Medical needs are considered alongside SEND provision, with support coordinated with the child’s healthcare plan. The school has wheelchair access and suitable toilets. These are practical features for families considering how their child will use the setting.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Oxfordshire County Council’s normal school admissions process. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as two separate decisions.

The shared garden connects the classes physically. For children with SEND, information is passed to the next teacher or school at transition, and parents are informed about what has been shared. Continuity of support matters, but it does not replace the admissions application.

Nursery applications are handled by the school, and application forms come from the school office. Families can contact office@witneycp.org or telephone 01993 702388. The setting is on Hailey Road, Witney, OX28 1HL.

Visits before a child starts are welcomed at any age. For families considering this nursery, seeing the shared garden and discussing their child’s individual needs provides a concrete starting point.