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Nursery at St Mary's Catholic Primary School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Child-led learning, indoor and outdoor activity, and a Catholic identity give St Mary's nursery its character. Children join from the term after their third birthday, becoming part of the school's Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Unit on Rowden Hill in Chippenham.
An early years specialist team works under an Early Years Lead. The nursery places parents' knowledge of their child alongside practitioners' planning, giving family contributions a role in shaping learning. In January 2026, Ofsted judged the school's early years provision to meet the Expected standard. That judgement covers early years across the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.
Children's interests help shape the curriculum, with real-life events and festivals providing connections to the wider world. Practitioners plan individual next steps rather than treating the group as if everyone were at the same point. Activities combine children's own choices with adult direction, using both indoor learning areas and outdoor space. This gives children opportunities to pursue interests while staff introduce learning deliberately.
The EYFS brings education and care together. In January 2026, the early years curriculum organised learning in a clear sequence, and staff used conversations to develop children's thinking and language. Planning took account of what children already knew, helping staff respond to gaps in understanding.
Spoken language remains an improvement priority. Strengthening its teaching was identified as the next step for supporting early reading and writing. For parents, language development is therefore an important part of assessing how the nursery supports their child's progress.
Relationships and personal development matter alongside learning. In January 2026, support for children's emotional and social development was effective across early years. Children felt secure and happy, and staff adjusted their approaches to children's needs. These findings give parents a useful picture of care within the wider EYFS provision.
Seesaw connects nursery learning with home. Parents can contribute to their child's learning record as well as engage with what staff share, making communication a two-way exchange. The class teacher is also the contact for concerns about learning or relationships; an appointment can be arranged through the office.
Chartwells prepares school lunches onsite, and nursery lunch is charged. Children may have a hot meal or bring a packed lunch. Meals must be ordered by Sunday for the following week. Families should tell both Chartwells and the school about allergies or other dietary requirements, helping catering staff account for individual needs.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately through the normal Reception admissions process by the normal deadline, so choosing nursery and securing a school place are separate decisions.
The early years team aims to tailor the move between nursery and Reception, working with parents throughout. This is an approach to supporting children through change, rather than an admissions entitlement.
Visits with children are encouraged, and families can visit and register before their child reaches the nursery's starting age. Contact the school office on 01249 460231 or email office@sm.thedcet.com to arrange a visit.
For children having school lunch, parents register with the Chartwells meal selector to order and pay. Orders can cover more than one week. Ask the school for current lunch charges when planning the nursery day.
Children are welcomed from the term following their third birthday. Families can visit and register beforehand.
The curriculum follows children's interests and connects with real-life events and festivals. Indoor and outdoor activities combine children's choices with adult-led learning.
The nursery uses Seesaw to record learning. Parents can engage with the record and contribute to it themselves.
Yes. Chartwells prepares lunches onsite, or children can bring a packed lunch. School meals are charged and must be ordered by Sunday for the following week.
No. A separate Reception application is required through the normal admissions process by the normal deadline.
