The Lingfield Education Trust are proud to serve their North East communities and were delighted when several of their schools were awarded the School-based Nursery funding in Tranche 1. One of these schools was Vane Road Primary School in County Durham which is led by Gemma Howe who is impressed with the impact of the project on the children, the staff and the wider community. They proudly opened their provision for 3-4 year-olds in September and places are filling quickly.

Why did you decide to apply for the School-based Nursery Grant?

It seemed like such a wonderful opportunity! We welcome children from around nine or ten local providers, and it has always been a dream to have our own nursery onsite. Previously, the Local Authority hadn’t felt there was enough local demand for it to be a feasible option. But when this opportunity presented itself, we knew we had the perfect space, a Studio that wasn’t used to its full potential. The funding allowed us to transform the indoor space with a new kitchen and toilets, and work has now begun on the outside space too.

Why Early Excellence? 

Our EYFS Lead Aimee Poulter is a huge advocate for Early Excellence and knew that you would help realise our vision. The Complete Classroom option made it so easy for us, we simply checked the measurements of the room, and with one click of the button, we ordered the correct classroom to fit the base. Our Trust have accessed the Early Excellence Roadshow training so know the principles around setting up an effective environment so could confidently decide how to lay the room out.

What was the experience like?

Very smooth! Everyone was incredibly helpful. Our building work overran which meant the delivery had to be right at the start of September – and we had one day to set everything up. The Early Excellence team supported us every step of the way with our chosen delivery date. Everything was so carefully packed and labelled that it was very easy to work out what resources and storage went on which shelves.

What has been the impact?

This is our favourite room in school now! The staff love it whether they are new to the team or experienced teachers. One Teaching Assistant recently came to tell me that she “absolutely loved her job” and we know that the environment plays a big part in this. The children settled quickly into routines; they are calm and know exactly what to do. We know that this wonderful and purposeful classroom is going to support our school values and key focus area of phonics. Our parents are also incredibly impressed; we had lots of positive feedback at a recent open evening and new admissions!   

What would be your “top tips” for any school looking to apply for Phase 2 of the School-based Nursery Grant?

Make sure you have a clear vision but that you also don’t forget the “little things”. Be involved in all stages of the process, make sure you do regular “walk-throughs” during the build – you’ll be amazed at what you spot. And try to think like toy are a three-year-old – how will this space work for someone of that age!

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