Welcome to Nursery – Donaldson Class
At Elm Hall Nursery, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment that reflects the diverse needs of our community in Witham. Our vision is to create a welcoming space where every child feels valued, safe, and inspired to learn. We believe that the foundation for lifelong learning begins in the early years, and we strive to equip our pupils with essential key skills that will support their academic and personal growth.
We aim to make all aspects of learning fun! Children will have a variety of opportunities to build on their existing skills and be challenged in preparation for school. Learning will occur through first-hand experiences, play-based activities, and teacher-led phase 1 phonics, all centered around high-quality texts that align with the children’s interests. We follow the EYFS curriculum and value every child as an individual.
Provision Information
1. Age Group:
- The nursery class is designed for 3 – 4 year olds. Parents can apply for a nursery place starting the term after their child turns 3.
2. Staffing:
- The class will be led by an experienced early years teacher, supported by a nursery nurse or Level 3 early years practitioner.
3. Session Times:
- Morning Sessions: 8:45 AM – 11:45 AM
- Afternoon Sessions: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
- Drop-off is available until 8:55 AM, and collection can occur after 3:15 PM to accommodate siblings' primary school schedules.
4. Funding and Fees:
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All 3-4 year olds are entitled to 15 hours of free nursery provision, which can be taken as:
- 5 morning sessions
- 5 afternoon sessions
- A combination of full and half days.
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Additional sessions, including wrap-around care, will be charged at £6.00 per hour (subject to availability).
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Children can bring a packed lunch or order a hot meal for £2.80.
5. 30 Hours Free Provision:
- Some 3-4 year olds may be entitled to 30 hours of free provision, which can be split with another provider, ensuring at least 15 hours are at Elm Hall Nursery.
Wraparound Care Information
As part of our commitment to supporting families and providing flexible childcare options, Elm Hall Early Years Setting will initially offer a Breakfast Club as part of our wraparound care provision.
- Hours: 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
- Cost: £6 per hour
- Eligibility: Please note that this service is not covered by the 15 or 30 hours free entitlement.
Applying
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Parents must complete an application form for a place starting the term after their child turns three. Applications will be reviewed in the preceding term and confirmed by the school on a first-come, first-served basis. The application form can be found here.
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Priority for places will be given to:
- Looked after children
- Siblings of children attending Elm Hall Primary School
- Children living in the catchment area
- Children living outside the catchment area
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Note: A place in the nursery does not guarantee a place at Elm Hall Primary School. Parents must apply through the Local Authority for a reception place.
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For further enquiries, please contact the school office on admin@elmhall.essex.sch.uk