Hazlegrove Preparatory School Nursery Review

A swimming pool, a theatre and a Forest School site give Hazlegrove’s nursery children a school-sized setting for their earliest learning. The nursery sits within the Pre-Prep at Hazlegrove Preparatory School in Sparkford, Somerset. Children join a wider school whose entry age starts at two.

There were two nursery classes at the May 2026 ISI inspection. Early years leaders were skilled in their work and regularly evaluated teaching and care, giving the provision a clear direction informed by children’s needs.

Children’s interests help shape the learning. Topics begin with their ideas, with opportunities to investigate, question and talk together. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) covers seven areas: physical development, relationships and emotional development, communication, mathematics, literacy, creativity and understanding the world. For parents, that means learning extends beyond early reading and counting to managing feelings, making friends and using the body confidently.

Free play has a teaching purpose. In May 2026, staff used it to develop independence, conversation, number skills and control of small movements. Assessments helped them recognise children needing extra support. Children also chose activities confidently and sustained their attention, so their own decisions formed part of learning rather than simply filling time between adult-led tasks.

The wider facilities expand the possibilities. Nursery children use the on-site pool, tennis courts, theatre and Forest School site, and take part in school assemblies and events. Music is taught by specialist music staff from nursery onwards. These experiences bring different spaces and adults into a young child’s school life.

Across early years, a pretend shop and homemade paper money make buying and selling tangible. Sharing a table at snack time also gives children practice in conversation, cooperation and kindness. Everyday routines carry learning too.

The nursery team includes an EYFS nursery lead and a lead pre-school practitioner with Norland training. Forest School leadership qualifications also feature within the team. This combines early childhood roles with expertise relevant to outdoor learning.

In May 2026, early years staff all held full paediatric first aid qualifications, and required staffing ratios were observed. Children practised handwashing before food. Drinking water and healthy snacks were available across the day, with adults supervising children as they ate. These routines support both physical care and growing independence.

Emotional learning uses zones of regulation, helping young children recognise feelings and manage their responses. Staff also understood safeguarding issues associated with intimate care, and personal mobile phones were prohibited in the setting.

Safeguarding updates. In May 2026, school leaders had not consistently refreshed safeguarding training and policy promptly after statutory guidance changed. Families should weigh that concern alongside the early years staff’s understanding of safeguarding responsibilities.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Reception admission is a separate step: families should treat it as a separate application, rather than assuming that a nursery place secures continued attendance. Participation in school activities should not be read as an admissions advantage.

Enquiries go through the Admissions Office, using the admissions enquiry form or calling 01963 442606. Individual family tours can be arranged on a suitable date, giving parents an opportunity to see the setting before making a decision.

Nursery has its own uniform list. The on-site uniform shop stocks new and pre-loved clothing, with initial fittings arranged by appointment. Contact the school for current charges; a monthly payment scheme is available through the Bursary.