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Nursery at Sutton Upon Derwent Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
A mud kitchen turns recipes into early number work at Sutton Upon Derwent, where outdoor play and language development meet. The nursery belongs to Sutton Upon Derwent Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School on Main Street, with an EYFS teacher in Class 1 and a nursery nurse on the school team.
In June 2026, Ofsted judged the school's early years provision to meet the Expected standard. That judgement covers early years within the school, rather than a separately graded nursery.
Stories, singing and rhymes give early learning a language focus. In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the practical emphasis here is on developing communication, learning to work with other children and building the first steps towards writing. Nursery children begin by making marks with their fingers before progressing towards forming letters. Writing starts with small movements.
Outside, the early years mud kitchen gives children reasons to talk, cooperate and follow a sequence. Working from recipes brings numbers and instructions into play. The wider school grounds also contain a chicken run, greenhouse, gardening poly-tunnel and forest school space. These are school facilities; the mud kitchen provides the clearest example of how outdoor learning works in early years.
The federation uses an enquiry approach that encourages children to ask questions and investigate ideas. Nursery pupils also belong to Sutton's teams: Hedgehogs, Badgers, Squirrels and Owls. Each term, a Team Challenge Day brings different ages together for activities, giving the youngest children a place in school life beyond their own class.
Teaching to consider. In June 2026, adult interactions in early years were usually effective, but needed further strengthening. The new phonics approach also needed time to become established. These qualifications matter alongside the practical activities and attention to early communication.
By June 2026, children in early years were settled, happy and comfortable with others. They could stay engaged in activities, and their needs were met well, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). For families whose child needs additional help, that early years finding is directly relevant.
Across the federation, class teachers direct everyday support, assisted by teaching assistants. Parents can approach their child's teacher or contact the SEND coordinator through the school office. The federation aims to work with parents throughout SEND support, giving families a route into discussions about their child's needs.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through their home local authority by its normal deadline. East Riding of Yorkshire Council is the school's admissions authority, but families living elsewhere apply through their own council.
Apply on time. Late applications are considered after those received by the deadline. Familiarity with the nursery should therefore sit alongside, rather than replace, the separate application process.
For enquiries, contact the Sutton school office on 01904 608440 or email suttononderwent.primary@eastriding.gov.uk. The school is on Main Street, Sutton upon Derwent, York, YO41 4BN.
Prospective families can arrange a school visit by calling the Sutton number. A visit offers an opportunity to discuss their child's needs with the school before deciding whether to apply.
In June 2026, the school's early years provision met the Expected standard. This is an early years judgement within the school inspection, rather than a separate nursery rating.
Early years children use the mud kitchen collaboratively, following recipes that help develop language, number recognition and understanding of instructions.
Nursery children make marks with their fingers, building towards early letter formation. Stories, rhymes and songs also support communication.
No. Families must apply separately for Reception through their home local authority by the normal deadline.
Approach the child's class teacher or contact the SEND coordinator through the school office. Class teachers direct everyday support with help from teaching assistants.
