MIDDLE
HEADER

Nursery (3-4 Years Old)


Nursery (3-4 Years Old)

Nursery at Goresbrook

In Nursery, children become confident, capable learners through a rich blend of play, exploration, and gentle adult guidance. Our provision builds on children’s natural curiosity, allowing them to investigate, ask questions, and develop ideas through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

Learning is carefully planned around the EYFS curriculum and delivered through a balance of child-initiated play and adult-led opportunities. Early literacy, phonics, and mathematical thinking are introduced in playful, engaging ways, alongside opportunities for mark making, storytelling, counting, problem-solving, and creative expression. Children are encouraged to collaborate, communicate, and take increasing responsibility for their learning.

Our Reggio-inspired environment uses natural and open-ended resources to promote deep thinking and imagination. Indoor and outdoor learning are equally valued, supporting physical development, wellbeing, and a strong connection to the natural world. Through close partnerships with parents, we ensure each child is supported and celebrated as they prepare confidently for the transition into Reception.
 

What does a day in Nursery look like?

Our Nursery day runs from 8.30am to 3.20pm and provides a balance of routine, play, and learning to help children feel settled, confident, and ready to explore.

8.30am – Welcome and Settling In

Children are welcomed into Nursery and supported to settle into the day. This time helps children build independence, confidence, and positive relationships. Children choose from a range of play opportunities indoors and outdoors, supported by familiar adults.

Morning Play and Learning

Learning in Nursery happens mainly through play. Children explore a carefully prepared environment using natural and open-ended resources that encourage curiosity and creativity. Adults observe children closely, listening to their ideas and conversations, and gently support learning through shared play and discussion. A strong focus is placed on personal, social and emotional development and communication and language, helping children develop friendships, confidence, and early listening and speaking skills.

Snack Time

Healthy snacks are provided each day. Snack time is a social experience where children practise independence, turn-taking, and communication in a relaxed setting.

11.30am – Lunchtime

Children bring a packed lunch from home and eat alongside our Pre-school and Reception children. Lunchtime supports routines, social skills, and independence.
Part-time children are collected at 11.30am.

Afternoon Learning and Play (Full-Time Children)

The afternoon continues with child-led play, outdoor learning, stories, songs, and small-group activities. Adults continue to observe and support children’s learning, encouraging language development, cooperation, and emotional regulation through play.

3.20pm – Home Time

The day ends with a calm home-time routine. Staff are available to share information with parents about their child’s day and achievements.
 

How to apply?

We welcome applications for our Nursery throughout the year, subject to availability.

Funded Places

To check if your child is eligible for free early learning for 3-year-olds, please visit: Free early learning | London Borough of Barking and Dagenham

Once on the website, select the “See if you’re eligible” box on the 3-year-olds page.

This will take you to the online portal where you can make an application.
If you are applying for part-time (15 hours) provision only, no eligibility code is required.

Paying for a place

If you wish to pay for a Nursery place, the current fee is £6.00 per hour.
Parents are asked to provide:

  • A packed lunch
  • Nappies
  • Wipes and creams
  • Spare clothes

Enrolment Form

Once eligibility has been confirmed or if you are applying for a paid place, please complete our school enrolment form. A member of staff will then contact you to discuss availability and next steps.