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Nursery at St Michael's Community Academy
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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Snuggly Bugs gives two-year-olds their own starting point at St Michael's Community Academy, alongside Main Nursery's two classes for three- and four-year-olds. Full-time and part-time provision sit within the school's early years department in Crewe. Children can join from the term after their second birthday and stay until they begin Reception.
The nursery occupies the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 wing, with a separate Foundation Stage playground and equipment chosen for that age group. This gives younger children outdoor space suited to their stage of development. At the inspection on 31 October and 1 November 2023, Ofsted graded the school's early years provision Outstanding. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.
Play drives the learning, with adults teaching directly as well as following children's choices. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together language, physical development and social confidence with literacy, mathematics, creative expression and understanding the world. For parents, that means learning extends beyond early reading and number work to movement, relationships and exploration.
Children use indoor and outdoor learning spaces daily, with opportunities for energetic activity and quieter play. Staff watch how children play, assess their development and plan what to introduce next. Activities draw on individual interests, so children's choices help shape the learning rather than simply filling time between adult-led tasks.
Community police officers and a mini-beast specialist are among the early years visitors, bringing people and the natural world into children's learning. Planned trips extend those experiences beyond school. Read Write Inc is the phonics programme used in EYFS, while early reading starts even in the two-year-old provision through songs, stories and rhymes. These give the youngest children an introduction to reading through listening and participation.
In October and November 2023, children across early years, including the two-year-olds, adapted quickly to school routines. Staff expertise supported strong achievement for children with SEND as well as their peers. These are useful findings for families weighing an early start in a school setting.
Regular discussions with staff give parents opportunities to talk about their child's needs. Early years workshops cover maths, reading and phonics, and topic afternoons let relatives join activities with the children. The partnership therefore includes practical ways to take part, alongside conversations about development.
Across the academy, additional support follows a graduated process involving the class teacher, SEND coordinator and external specialists where appropriate. The school aims to keep parents informed about progress. Academy catering is provided by Miquill, with school menus rotating over three weeks and changing each term; special menus mark occasions including Chinese New Year. This is the school's catering arrangement, rather than a description of a nursery meal package.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. Cheshire East's online admissions route is available for school applications. Treat choosing nursery and applying for Reception as two distinct decisions, even though both concern the same school.
Morning nursery sessions run from 8:30am to 11:30am; afternoons run from 12:15pm to 3:15pm. The separate session windows matter when planning collection and other childcare.
Eligible two-year-olds can receive a free place from the term after their second birthday. From the term after turning three, all children are entitled to a free 15-hour place, choosing mornings or afternoons. Some families qualify for a free 30-hour place when both parents work, subject to criteria.
Visits can be arranged through the school office on 01270 902056. Enquiries can also go to smcaoffice@sbmat.org. For Early Years, uniform includes a white shirt or polo shirt; navy sweatshirts and cardigans carry the school logo. Other clothing can be bought from a retailer chosen by the family.
Children can join from the term after their second birthday. Snuggly Bugs caters for two-year-olds, while Main Nursery has two classes for three- and four-year-olds.
Morning sessions are 8:30am to 11:30am. Afternoon sessions are 12:15pm to 3:15pm.
Eligible two-year-olds can receive a free place. From the term after their third birthday, all children are entitled to a free 15-hour place. Some families qualify for 30 hours when both parents work, subject to criteria.
No. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline.
Contact the school office on 01270 902056 to arrange a visit.
