Baltonsborough School Age Range Consultation

Overview

Somerset Council is inviting feedback on a proposal from The Academies for Character and Excellence Trust to extend the age range at Baltonsborough Church of England Primary School.

The proposal is to change the school’s age range from 4 to 11 years to 2 to 11 years, from September 2026.

If approved, this would enable the school to offer nursery provision for children aged 2 to 4, alongside its existing primary school provision. 

About the proposal

The proposal would allow the school to create a nursery within the existing school building, using a classroom that has already been adapted for early years use. 

The nursery would:

• Offer places for children aged 2 to 4
• Provide up to 15 places
• Operate during term time
• Be part of the existing school and Trust arrangements 

The aim is to provide a continuous education pathway from early years through to Year 6.

Why this is being proposed

Local nursery provision in Baltonsborough and surrounding rural areas has reduced following the closure of some settings. 

The proposal aims to:

• Improve access to early years childcare locally
• Support families in the area
• Help meet the Council’s duty to ensure there are enough childcare places available 

Impact on the school

The proposal would not reduce the number of places available for children of statutory school age at the primary school. 

Children would still need to apply separately for a Reception place through Somerset Council’s admissions process.

Funding and delivery

The nursery provision would be funded using existing resources within the Trust, alongside nursery funding and parental fees. 

No additional capital funding is being requested.

The Trust already delivers early years provision in other schools and has systems in place for safeguarding, curriculum delivery and staff training. 

What happens next

This consultation is an opportunity for parents, carers, staff, local residents and other interested parties to give their views on the proposal.

After the consultation closes:

• All responses will be reviewed by the school and Trust
• A decision will be made on whether to submit a formal application to the Department for Education (DfE)

If approved, the proposed start date for the nursery provision is 1 September 2026.