Red Robins Nursery at St Giles-on-the-Heath Community School

Stories, shared play and the first steps towards independence give Red Robins its character. Red Robins caters for children aged two and three within St Giles-on-the-Heath Community School’s foundation stage unit. The emphasis is on young children learning alongside one another.

Ofsted graded the school’s early years provision Good at its inspection on 10 and 11 January 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Stories provide the starting point for early years learning. In January 2023, children were becoming familiar with routines, learning together successfully and beginning to do things independently. For parents, that gives the foundation stage a practical meaning: learning involves managing familiar activities and being part of a group, as well as developing early skills.

Phonics begins within the foundation stage unit. Alongside this introduction to sounds, staff expect much of the youngest children. The January 2023 findings describe children enjoying their learning and cooperating in play from the age of two. Social learning matters here.

Past Red Robins activities bring that picture into focus. Children have selected books from a visiting library bus to share during circle time, baked bread and planted a bulb as part of Children’s Mental Health Week. These examples connect stories with making and growing, giving children something concrete to discuss and explore. Outdoor play takes place in different weather conditions, too. The nursery’s activities therefore extend beyond indoor learning, with practical experiences alongside books and group time.

An early years SEND coordinator is a contact for families whose children have special educational needs or disabilities. Parents can reach this role through the school telephone number, giving them a specific starting point for discussing their child’s needs.

Conversation support also has a place in the parent information: resources address helping preschool children communicate, learning new words and making communication easier. Separate materials cover separation anxiety and emotions. These give families topics to explore alongside conversations with staff.

Attending Red Robins does not guarantee a Reception place. A separate application is required, including for children already attending the preschool. Families apply through Devon County Council rather than directly to the school. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for Reception as two distinct decisions.

Preschool applications go directly to the school office. A school visit can be arranged by telephone on 01566 772191 or by email at admin@st-giles-heath-primary.devon.sch.uk, giving families a chance to discuss joining before applying.

Uniform guidance favours a Red Robins top and keeps clothing requirements simple. Logo tops can be purchased through the office; contact the school for current uniform charges.

The school has moved its online information to The Carey Federation website. Use that site for school information and the office contact for preschool enquiries. Paper copies of school information can also be requested through the office, free of charge.