Upton Priory School Nursery

Stories, conversation and mathematical exploration give Upton Priory's nursery its clearest character. This is the school's own preschool provision in Macclesfield, based at Berwick Close. Its curriculum spans the Foundation Stage, with learning intended to lay the groundwork for later school subjects.

The emphasis is on foundations rather than a miniature version of older children's lessons. Language develops through books and conversation; early mathematics combines adult guidance with opportunities for children to explore independently. For parents, those are useful distinctions: learning includes both time with staff and opportunities to try ideas for themselves.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) mathematics mixes daily focused group sessions with games, songs, puzzles and stories. Children also explore mathematical ideas independently in the provision indoors and outside. That gives number learning several forms, rather than confining it to a single lesson or activity.

Adults model mathematical vocabulary across learning and encourage children to use it. The practical implication is that talking about an idea forms part of learning it: children have opportunities to put their thinking into words alongside their exploration.

In January 2024, communication and language were a clear focus in the Nursery class, with staff drawing on books and conversation to develop children's language. This gives shared reading a purpose beyond hearing a story. It supports the vocabulary and communication children will need as their learning develops.

Parents can discuss teachers' learning plans with them. That offers a concrete starting point for conversations about what a child is learning and how their interests connect with classroom activities.

For wider family support, Cheshire East Family Hubs provide advice on development, milestones and keeping children safe. Ash Grove children's centre is the nearest hub; depending on the service and a family's needs, support may instead take place at Broken Cross children's centre or through school. The distinction matters practically: support can involve different locations rather than a single fixed destination.

The school expects staff to challenge prejudice and respond to discrimination and bullying. This is an expectation for adults across the school community, relevant to families considering how differences and inclusion are approached.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. Treat that application as a distinct task when planning the move to school: familiarity with Upton Priory and entitlement to a place are separate questions.

Nursery enquiries can go through the school office on 01625 783500. The school and preschool share the Berwick Close address in Macclesfield, SK10 3ED, giving families one contact point for their initial enquiry.

Class leaders can also be contacted by email through the school's class contact buttons. This provides a route to the relevant class team for learning-related conversations, alongside the office telephone route for general enquiries.