It is widely recognised that children who attend pre-school education settle more quickly into full-time schooling. At Temple Meadow, we are proud of our outstanding nursery provision, which builds strong foundations for future learning.

Our Nursery welcomes children aged 3 and 4, offering both full-time and part-time places. Morning sessions run from 8:45am to 11:45am, with afternoon sessions from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. We also provide 30-hour places from 8:45am to 3:30pm, including a 45-minute lunch break.

Our Early Years provision is a real strength. In our most recent Ofsted inspection, it was highly praised for its quality of provision, enriching experiences and strong leadership. Where children have additional needs, we pride ourselves on early identification and tailored support to ensure every child can thrive. Over time, our outcomes in terms of GLD (Good Level of Development) at the end of Early Years remain consistently strong.

Settling in

We understand that starting school is a big step for both you and your child. At Temple Meadow, our aim is to make this transition a happy and positive experience, where your child feels secure, cared for and inspired by a stimulating environment. We place great importance on building strong relationships with you, as parents and carers, knowing that this partnership is key not only to the settling-in process but also to your child’s ongoing success throughout their school journey.

We also recognise that your child arrives at school having already learnt so much from you at home. Our goal is to build on this knowledge and experience, helping your child to grow in confidence and continue progressing into the next stage of their learning.

Our Vision

In our Early Years provision at Temple Meadow, children are excited and motivated to learn. Through rich and challenging experiences, they are given ample opportunities to explore, discover and take risks in their learning. We carefully plan imaginative, hands-on activities that spark curiosity and creativity.

We have high expectations for every child, while recognising that each begins their learning journey from a different starting point. Within our nurturing and safe environment, children are supported as individuals, with learning planned according to their stage of development so that all can thrive and grow.

Our dedicated team works cohesively, with play-based, child-centred learning firmly at the heart of everything we do.

30-Hour Provision

Since September 2021, we have offered 30-hour places within our Nursery provision. For children eligible for the 30-hour offer, the school day runs from 8:45am to 3:30pm, Monday to Friday. These are fixed days and hours. Children will need to bring a healthy packed lunch from home each day. During the lunch break (11:45am–12:30pm), a comfortable area is available for children to relax and enjoy quiet time.

Families accessing our 30-hour provision are asked to pay a small supplementary charge of £2.60 per day. This covers the additional 45 minutes beyond the government-funded hours and should be paid via the My Child at School app.

Our Nursery curriculum follows the Early Years Framework, ensuring it is tailored to the needs of young learners. Each day places a strong focus on communication and language, personal development and physical development. Literacy and Numeracy skills are introduced in an age-appropriate way, with a strong emphasis on learning through play and outdoor experiences.

Eligibility

Your eligibility will depend on:

• whether you are working

• your income (and your partner’s income, if applicable)

• your child’s age and circumstances

• your immigration status

Next Steps:

1. If you are interested in a 30-hour place at our Nursery, you will need to complete our Nursery application form and visit gov.uk/30-hours-free-childcare to check the full eligibility criteria.
   If you believe you are eligible, please apply online at gov.uk/apply-30-hours-free-childcare. The application usually takes around 20 minutes. You may receive an instant decision, though it can take up to 7 days. If successful, you will be given a childcare account and a code for 30 hours of free childcare. Please email the following details to tm.admin@meadow.sandwell.sch.uk:

2. your child’s name

3. your National Insurance number

4. your child’s date of birth

5. your 30-hour code

 

We will then validate the code. Please note that without a valid code we cannot offer your child a 30-hour place.

Our AM and PM sessions remain available as usual: 8:45am–11:45am or 12:30pm–3:30pm. You will need to complete a Nursery application form and indicate your preference.

 

Rising 3's Provision

Our Rising 3s provision is designed for children who turn three during their first term with us. The application process depends on family circumstances and is generally classified as either a Working Families or Non-Working Families application.

Non-Working Families are entitled to 15 funded hours. To apply, parents/carers should visit the link below, select ‘Families in receipt of additional support application’, and complete the form:
https://fis.sandwell.gov.uk/kb5/sandwell/directory/advice.page?id=gogQx9T0ixs

Working Families may be eligible for an additional 15 funded hours (totalling 30 hours). Please see our 30-hour provision section above for details on how to apply.

For both categories, once your application is processed, you will receive an eligibility code if approved. This code must be included on the relevant Nursery application form.

Applications for our 15-hour provision

If your child has already turned three, an eligibility code is not required to apply for a Nursery place.

Please complete the Standard Nursery Application Form and submit it to the School Office along with your child’s birth certificate.

What next?

If you would like more information about our Nursery classes, please do not hesitate to contact us.