Nursery

It is always an exciting time for us when children in nursery begin their educational journey here at Lantern Academy. Children can start with us, in nursery, the term after their third birthday. This means we have new children starting in September, January and after Easter. Our early years environment is a stunning place to learn with carefully planned areas allowing children to immerse themselves in their learning. Our dedicated team of staff are nurturing, caring and friendly. As a small setting, all children spend time together at certain times of the day and we pride ourselves on being a big family. This approach allows us to provide a seamless transition for the children as they progress through our academy.

For those children entitled to a 15-hour nursery provision we encourage them to attend daily from 8.50am until 11.50am. This method instils good habits ready for the transition into our reception class. If there is capacity, and after discussion, we can offer a more flexible provision if parents need this. For children with a 30-hour code they can attend the setting for the full school day. There is an additional payment for lunchtime cover here.

A typical day in our early years and foundation stage setting is filled with engaging activities that promote holistic development, including child-led and adult-led learning sessions, outdoor learning in the early years garden and forest school areas.

We are proud to be part of the Learning Community Trust and are committed to providing an inclusive curriculum that meets the needs of every individual child. Our ethos is built on strong relationships, with each child, their families, and the wider community. At Lantern, we nurture success and individual talents while teaching the values of ‘We Respect’, ‘We Care’, and ‘We Persevere’. These principles help children develop resilience, confidence, and responsibility as they embark on their learning journey. Our nursery is a vibrant, nurturing place where children are encouraged to explore, imagine and grow through play-based learning.

We believe that play is the foundation of early learning, and our days are thoughtfully planned to offer rich, varied experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence and support each child’s unique interests and independence. Children enjoy a balance of indoor and outdoor learning, with opportunities to investigate, create and problem-solve in stimulating environments. Whether they are building, role-playing, experimenting with natural materials or exploring the world outside, learning is active, meaningful and joyful.

A love of reading and creativity is at the heart of everything we do. Stories, books and songs are woven throughout the day, inspiring language, imagination and a lifelong enjoyment of reading. Creative expression is celebrated through art, music, movement and imaginative play, allowing children to share their ideas and develop their own voices.

Above all, our nursery is a place where children feel safe, valued and excited to learn, developing the skills, independence and enthusiasm that will support them well beyond their early years. Children are welcome to apply for the term after their third birthday.

Outstanding Facilities for Early Learning At Lantern Primary and Nursery, you’ll find:

• A high quality indoor and outdoor provision providing a rich and varied learning environment.
• A classroom which ignites a love of reading
• A large hall for music, PE, assemblies, and wider educational experiences
• Extensive outdoor grounds for play, Forest School, and curriculum activities
• A separate bungalow used for community events

Our classrooms and outdoor spaces are calm, focused, and designed to reduce cognitive load, helping children make excellent progress. Outdoors, pupils enjoy PE lessons, playtimes and Forest School – all in safe, open spaces where they can express themselves and build relationships.

We appreciate the involvement our parents have in the education and development of their child and work together to ensure everyone feels supported and valued.

For full details on available sessions, costs, and any chargeable extras, please click on the button below.