The Murrayfield Primary Academy Nursery, rated Good by Ofsted, is a friendly and caring place for your child to take their first steps on the school journey. It’s open every weekday during term time from 8.50-11.50 and we have up to 26 places for three-year olds at any one time.
Our nursery is connected to the main school, in a special area which has been purpose-built to accommodate children of this age. Everything is on their level, from the toilets and sinks to the countertops – ideal for group cooking activities! The classroom has different areas for roleplay, art, music and much more, and the children have free-flow access to a large, newly refurbished external space, which is covered so they can enjoy outdoor activities all year round. This is shared with the Reception children to encourage interactions with others, and to help when it comes to transition from Nursery.
Learning
Our curriculum covers many topics, including ‘Ourselves’, ‘Journeys and Holidays’ and ‘Celebrations’. It’s our goal to make learning as interactive as possible, for instance during our New Life topic we incubate duck eggs, so the children can see them hatch in class and look after them in their first weeks of life. We arrange relevant school visits from local community members such as a dental health care team, and a lady who teaches the children about hedgehogs. We also get out and about so the children can explore the world around us, taking them on trips to places like the local library and to Jimmy’s Farm.
As your child progresses through Nursery the teaching staff will support them and track their learning journey. This is done through a piece of specialist software called Tapestry, which allows us to record your child’s experiences and development and share it with you securely. In turn you are also able to add to it with comments and photos so it builds into a comprehensive record of your child’s progress as they grow and develop.
Joining
We appreciate starting Nursery is often a nerve-wracking time for children and both parents/carers so we have procedures in place to make this time as easy as possible for everyone. We make sure you receive a ‘Welcome to EYFS’ booklet which details everything you need to know. We also organise transition visits for every child, inviting them to come into school for short periods of time which allows them to become familiar with the new surroundings.
Applying
To apply for your child’s Nursery place simply come into school and speak to our front office team. You can enquire in the term that they turn two and a half, and we’ll put their name on the waiting list, and contact you as soon as a place becomes free. All children are entitled to 15 hours per week of free early years education for 38 weeks each year.
FAQs
What age do children begin at Murrayfield Nursery?
Children can join us on the term after their third birthday.
What are the opening times?
8.50am – 11.50am.
How many sessions are on offer?
We have five mornings per week.
What food/drink is provided?
We offer all children a healthy morning snack, of fruit or veg and milk. There is no charge for this.
Is there a uniform?
Yes, children in our Nursery wear the Murrayfield uniform, this helps them feel part of the rest of the school. The royal blue sweatshirt can be bought from any shop, though if you’d like one with the school logo on please visit PGM schoolwear in Ipswich.
My child has a special need, what support will you provide for them?
Murrayfield is an inclusive school, which means that we feel that every child should be able to participate in every aspect of school life with a sense of belonging and a sense of being valued. Our support is tailored to each child’s individual needs so before your child begins at Murrayfield Nursery we will discuss their particular requirements with you and create a plan for them.