Staff aim to provide a rich variety of play activities and other experiences, which motivate and challenge children, in an environment which is both supportive and child led. It is within this caring and supportive environment that children will become enthusiastic learners and can reach their full potential in every aspect of their growth and development.

The nursery school opened in September 1975 and operates a mixed pattern of attendance. We have three classes offering full-time and part time places for 78 children in their preschool year. We have a wide range of learning areas, both inside and outside. The nursery school has a welcome play area and two large, bright classrooms with quiet rooms. A further classroom with safety surface flooring acts as a multi-purpose room for many activities and opportunities.

An outdoor classroom boasts a raised garden area including a sand house, role-play area, music corner, messy kitchen and willow teepee. Our large playground includes a cottage, willow tunnel, climbing frames, gravel workshop area, water play, reading soft play areas, bird watchers’ space and planters.

The woodland garden provides a unique learning environment for the children. It is naturally abundant with opportunities for children to grow by solving problems, working together, learning from mistakes, exploring and making choices. We have been awarded the Eco School’s Green Flag and have achieved the Amenity Council’s Best Kept Schools Award and Runner up Award.

In our most recent inspection, the nursery school received the highest performance level described as “Outstanding”. We were commended on the “high quality pre-school education offered. Staff were described as providing “excellent opportunities for learning across all aspects of the pre-school curriculum, meeting the needs of the children and families in the area.” Inspectors also noted that “children with additional needs are identified early and their needs are being met with a combination of high-quality individual support, smaller group support and effective liaison with parents, health professionals and other agencies.”

As a Parent or Carer you will have an active role in this very important stage of your child’s development. Throughout the year we will invite you to get involved in the life and work of the school. We will provide you with regular newsletters and updates on activities and events. We aim to work in partnership with you. We want to help your child develop positive attitudes to learning and to be happy, healthy and confident in every aspect of their lives.

The staff and I are always happy to talk to you and answer any questions you many have. Please take time to look through our website and if you have any questions please contact me.
I hope you and your child will be very happy in Saint Joseph’s Nursery School.

Mrs A. Maguire
Principal