New nursery opens at Priory Lane School, expanding early years provision for local families

A new nursery has opened at Priory Lane Community School, boosting early years provision for local families and creating more opportunities for children to get the best possible start to their education.

The nursery is fully integrated, providing a seamless transition into the primary school and supporting children’s development in a familiar, nurturing environment.

It offers high-quality early learning, helping children build confidence, social skills and a love of learning from the very start.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “When I visited the new nursery, I was immediately struck by how bright, welcoming and full of life it is. The rooms are colourful and thoughtfully designed, and the children were already completely absorbed in play, learning and role-play – exactly how early years education should look and feel.

“This is the kind of place every parent wants for their child: warm, nurturing and stimulating, with skilled staff who really understand how young children learn and grow.

“This nursery will have a hugely positive impact on children’s confidence, development and love of learning, giving them the very best start and setting them up brilliantly for their journey into school and beyond.”

The new nursery has been developed to complement existing early years provision in the area, including nearby private nurseries, by increasing overall capacity and choice for families rather than competing with established providers. It also comes at a time when demand for high‑quality childcare continues to grow across the area.

This investment of £60,000, jointly funded by the DFE’s Building School Based Nurseries Grant and council investment, reflects a strong commitment to making sure families can access high‑quality, affordable childcare close to home, supporting parents to work, study or manage family life with confidence.

Within the new nursery, children will benefit from high‑quality early learning, delivered by experienced practitioners who focus on communication, social development, early literacy and numeracy, and creative exploration. The setting has been designed to nurture curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning, giving children the foundations they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.

Headteacher Joanne Leighton added: “We’re incredibly proud to welcome our new nursery children and families. Being part of the school means children benefit from our experienced staff, excellent facilities and a smooth transition into school life. This is a really positive addition for the whole school community.”

The nursery will work closely with the wider school team – including pastoral staff, SEND support and specialist teaching practitioners – to create a continuity of care and learning that carries children straight through their early years and into primary school. The approach provides stability, reassurance and a consistent educational journey for families.

To enquire about a place please visit the Priory Lane Community School website.