The Fields Nursery School

About The Fields Nursery School

The Fields Nursery School in Cambridge is a state-funded nursery for children aged two to five, currently home to 57 pupils. This is a small, intimate setting, and while the data doesn't specify its exact capacity, the school operates within a local authority where only three out of seven nursery schools hold an Outstanding rating from Ofsted. The school itself was rated Outstanding in its previous inspection in 2017, but its most recent graded inspection in 2024 saw it step down to Good across all categories. The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is not provided in the data, so it's difficult to compare directly with national or local averages, but the school's small size suggests a close-knit community. There is no information on admissions oversubscription, so the level of demand is unclear, but for families in Cambridge seeking a state nursery place, this is one of a handful of options in the local authority.

Academically, as a nursery school, The Fields does not participate in the standard primary school assessments like KS2 SATs or have a Progress 8 score. Instead, its quality is measured through Ofsted's early years framework. In its April 2024 inspection, the school received a Good rating for overall effectiveness, quality of education, personal development, behaviour and attitudes, and leadership and management. This represents a change from its previous Outstanding rating in 2017, when both overall effectiveness and leadership and management were judged as grade 1. The inspection report, published in June 2024, notes that the school provides a Good standard of early years education. For parents focused on early childhood development, the school's specific SEND provision for speech, language and communication is a notable strength, and the curriculum is supported by clubs including Art Club and Eco Club, as well as gymnastics as a sport offering.

The school's facilities include a gymnasium, an outdoor playground, a dining hall, and a chapel, which is unusual for a state nursery and may appeal to families looking for a setting with a traditional feel. The school is mixed-gender and has no religious character, so the chapel is likely used for assemblies or community events rather than worship. With a specific SEND focus on speech, language and communication, the nursery is well-suited to families whose children may need early support in this area. The nearest Outstanding-rated nursery is Brunswick Nursery School, 1.6 kilometres away, which could be a consideration for parents prioritising the highest Ofsted grade. Overall, The Fields Nursery School is a solid, Good-rated option for Cambridge families seeking a small, state-funded nursery with a range of facilities and targeted SEND support, though those wanting an Outstanding rating may need to look further afield.

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