Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School Nursery

Stories, conversation and early language support give this nursery its clearest character. Children encounter books and rhymes, while WELLCOMM assessments help staff identify language needs as they start. That puts communication firmly into the daily learning picture.

The nursery belongs to Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School on Hedgefield Road in Liverpool, beside the church. Children can join from the term following their third birthday. It is part of a primary school with one class per year group, and its Catholic character extends into nursery teaching through Come and See religious education.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together learning about language, relationships, movement and the wider world, alongside early mathematics, literacy and creative expression. Here, play sits alongside activities guided by adults, demonstrations and direct teaching. Children also learn by watching one another. The mix gives them different ways to practise and combine developing skills.

Language has a specific daily role: conversation and interaction accompany stories, books, rhymes and vocabulary development. WELLCOMM assesses children's understanding and language when they begin nursery, allowing staff to target support where gaps emerge. The practical benefit is a connection between what a child can already communicate and the help offered next.

Creative learning includes exploring materials and expressing ideas through the arts. Religious education uses Come and See, with topics organised around Church, Christian Living and Sacraments. Its teaching stages move from exploration to revelation and response; children also learn about faiths including Islam and Judaism. For families choosing a Catholic nursery, faith is part of the curriculum itself.

During the January 2024 inspection, children starting nursery received help to settle promptly. Children in early years also showed consideration towards others and followed school rules. These findings give parents a dated picture of the social adjustment involved in beginning school.

The nursery teacher also holds the EYFS lead role, linking classroom teaching with responsibility for early years. Staff work with parents to understand children's individual abilities and needs. For children needing additional help, the school's approach includes targeted support and interventions, with a SENDCO as the contact for questions about special educational needs and disabilities.

Attending this nursery does not guarantee a Reception place at the school. Families must apply separately for Reception through the normal admissions process and meet the relevant deadline. Treat the nursery decision and the Reception application as two distinct steps, even when you hope your child will remain at the same school.

The 15-hour education offer has two attendance patterns. Beginning of the Week combines Monday and Tuesday full days with a Wednesday morning; End of the Week combines Wednesday afternoon with Thursday and Friday full days. These blocks matter when matching nursery attendance to work or other childcare.

A limited number of funded 30-hour places are also offered, subject to eligibility. To register interest in nursery, complete a form at the school office. General enquiries can go to 0151 487 9301 or ourladyp-ao@ourlady-pri.liverpool.sch.uk.