The FMS Inspection Score is FindMySchool's proprietary analysis based on official Ofsted and ISI inspection reports. It converts ratings into a standardised 1–10 scale for fair comparison across all schools in England.
Disclaimer: The FMS Inspection Score is an independent analysis by FindMySchool. It is not endorsed by or affiliated with Ofsted or ISI. Always refer to the official Ofsted or ISI report for the full picture of a school’s inspection outcome.
Nursery at St Andrew the Apostle 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Books set the themes, children's interests shape the play, and outdoor learning continues whatever the weather. That combination defines the nursery at St Andrew the Apostle Catholic Primary School in Halewood: an early years provision built around exploration, conversation and growing independence.
At its inspection on 18 and 19 March 2025, Ofsted recorded adjacent Nursery and Reception classrooms and a shared outdoor area. In March 2025, Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Outstanding. This is a judgement covering early years within the school, rather than a separate nursery rating; children developed secure foundations for learning through expert teaching and curriculum leadership.
Play carries the learning. The Early Years Foundation Stage framework, supported by Development Matters, guides what children learn and how adults respond to their development. Te Whariki principles also inform the approach. In practical terms, staff observe children's play, plan what comes next and adapt activities to their interests and needs.
A book provides the starting point for each overarching theme, with vocabulary, concepts and skills planned around it. Writing has a purpose within everyday routines, while mathematical language and ideas appear throughout the day. Children can move between indoor and outdoor learning in all weathers, giving exploration space beyond the classroom. Hygge informs the environment, with belonging and wellbeing as its aims.
Early reading begins with listening. Letters and Sounds Phase 1 helps nursery children distinguish environmental sounds; initial letter sounds are introduced during the summer term for children who are ready. Adults also use Fred Talk daily, breaking words into sounds for children to join together or separate orally. The emphasis is on hearing and using language before moving further into reading.
Music has a named programme too: Charanga includes nursery children in practical music and singing. Alongside books and sound play, this gives children another way to listen, participate and express themselves.
A key worker approach gives children a consistent relationship to build on. Staff work with parents to exchange information about learning and discuss each child's next steps, linking what happens in nursery with the family's knowledge of their child.
For additional needs, the school's SEND approach uses a cycle of assessment, planning, action and review. Class teachers retain responsibility for children's progress, including when other adults provide support. This makes support an ongoing process of checking needs and adjusting provision. Families can contact the SEND coordinator through the school office.
The early years lunch period runs from 11:30 to 12:00. Personal, Social and Health Education begins in nursery through a programme devised by the PSHE Association, introducing learning about relationships, wellbeing and the wider world alongside everyday care.
Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must apply separately through the normal Reception admissions process. The school office and Knowsley Admissions Team provide application advice.
Classroom familiarity is a separate benefit. At its inspection on 18 and 19 March 2025, Ofsted recorded occasional joint learning and a shared outdoor area for Nursery and Reception. The school's teaching approach is consistent across both classes, with staff planning and reviewing learning together. These links offer continuity in children's experience; they do not secure admission.
The school is on Higher Road, Halewood, Liverpool, L26 1TD. Contact the office on 0151 288 8940 for enquiries. School visits can be arranged by appointment, giving families an opportunity to see the setting before deciding.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee admission, and families must make a separate Reception application.
Play-based learning follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework and Development Matters, with Te Whariki principles also informing the curriculum. Books and children's interests shape activities.
Yes. Children have continuous access to indoor and outdoor learning in all weathers. Ofsted recorded a shared early years outdoor area for Nursery and Reception at its inspection on 18 and 19 March 2025.
Nursery children follow Letters and Sounds Phase 1, listening for environmental sounds. Adults use Fred Talk daily, and children who are ready begin initial letter sounds in the summer term.
Contact the school office on 0151 288 8940 to arrange a school visit by appointment.
