Terrington Hall School Nursery Review

A mud kitchen, swimming and early phonics give Terrington Hall’s nursery a distinctive mix of outdoor exploration and structured learning. It sits within the school’s Pre-Prep provision, with nursery children able to move between their classroom and an enclosed outdoor area. Play has room to spread.

Children can begin in the term before their third birthday, provided they are dry. Staff assist with toileting, but there are no facilities for changing nappies. That condition matters when deciding whether the start date fits your child’s development.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) shapes the curriculum: children learn through activities they choose themselves as well as tasks supported by adults. In practical terms, play sits alongside scheduled literacy, number work and physical activity. Read, Write Inc introduces structured literacy from Nursery where appropriate, with children grouped by ability rather than simply by age.

Outdoors, the shared nursery and Reception area includes a mud kitchen and climbing equipment, alongside spaces for sand, water and imaginative play. Moving between inside and outside lets children continue their exploration in different settings. The school grounds extend the possibilities for creative play and trying new things.

Across the week, activities include baking and Forest School, as well as swimming, PE and music. Their timing depends on the school timetable, so a particular session does not guarantee a particular activity. Music belongs to the Performing Arts programme from Nursery; in early years, drama brings movement into musical learning.

At the November 2023 ISI inspection, early-years teaching and assessment were judged rigorous, with activities suited to children’s needs supporting good progress. Number learning involved investigation and play; structured phonics developed awareness of word sounds. Role-play also supported spoken language, giving the learning a social dimension alongside the early academic skills.

Communication has two useful channels. An open-door approach lets parents discuss concerns and share news with staff, while Tapestry provides an online journal of children’s learning experiences. Together, these give families ways to connect home life with nursery learning.

Starting nursery is treated as a significant change for both children and parents. A personal tour gives families an opportunity to ask questions before that transition. At mealtimes, children use adult cutlery, and special diets are catered for: eating is also a chance to practise everyday independence.

In November 2023, early-years children were learning to share, take turns and consider how their actions affected others. Adults modelled positive behaviour, while children developed friendship skills and ways to settle disagreements. Stories introduced different family structures, connecting social learning with an appreciation of other people’s lives.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Contact admissions to confirm the Reception application process and any deadline when planning your child’s next year.

The shared enclosed outdoor area gives nursery children a physical connection with Reception. That continuity of space is separate from the question of securing a place.

Provision runs during term time, with sessions booked ahead. A full day lasts from 8.30am to 3.30pm. Morning options finish at noon or at 1.30pm with lunch included; both begin at 8.30am. The afternoon runs from noon until 3.30pm, and wraparound care is available.

Parents can use their 15 hours of government funding at Terrington Hall. Contact the school for current charges. Nursery children are encouraged to wear school uniform, including PE kit and swimwear, so clothing needs to accommodate both classroom learning and physical activities.

For enquiries or a visit, contact admissions@terringtonhall.com or telephone 01653 648227. Bespoke tours can be arranged at a time that suits the family.