St Joseph's Catholic Primary School Nursery

Catholic values shape more than the learning at St Joseph's: they also shape how children practise kindness, respect and everyday routines. This is the nursery within St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Langwith Junction, on Langwith Road. Its curriculum combines the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) with the teachings of the Catholic Church, giving families a clear sense of the setting's character.

A nursery teacher sits within the teaching team. The school's behaviour approach applies to nursery as well as primary children, with expectations adjusted for children's ages and individual educational needs. For a young child, that means learning routines is part of the education itself.

The EYFS is the nursery's early learning framework. Here, learning is planned around children's next steps rather than treating the group as though everyone needs the same activity. In February 2024, early years activities connected a winter theme with polar scenes and watercolour painting. Children were absorbed in their work. These examples show how a shared theme can give children different ways to explore and create.

Outdoor learning has a named home: the school's own Forest School area. Two staff members are trained to deliver the programme, which is offered to all children through different formats, including class activities and intervention groups. Sessions respond to the group's needs. Exploration and environmental art are among the examples, making the outdoor space a place for learning as well as play.

Gospel Virtues also guide the behaviour curriculum. Adults demonstrate routines and give children opportunities to practise them, revisiting expectations through the year. Age and individual needs affect how those expectations are applied, including sensitivity around eye contact.

Getting to know a new starter includes understanding life at home. Families complete an All About Me booklet to help nursery staff learn about their child and their usual daily routine. This gives parents a practical way to share familiar habits before the nursery day becomes familiar too. EYFS Stay and Play opportunities also bring families into children's early learning.

Support includes physical spaces for managing feelings. Every classroom has a calm down zone, with resources such as colouring materials, timers and breathing strategies. The sensory room is accessible to all children at school and includes a light tube, mirrors and a colour-changing table. Children can use it to regulate or meet sensory needs.

For concerns about special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), families can contact the SEND coordinator. The school accesses additional professional support and funding through Derbyshire's local offer.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal local authority process. Derbyshire residents apply through Derbyshire County Council; Nottinghamshire residents use Nottinghamshire County Council.

For the September 2026 entry cycle, the application deadline was 15 January. That deadline has passed. Choosing nursery and applying for Reception are separate decisions, so families should keep the Reception application alongside their childcare planning.

Breakfast Club accepts nursery-aged children from 7.45am, with last entry at 8.15am. It is charged separately; contact the school for current charges. This provides an early-morning option for families whose working day starts before school.

Nursery enquiries can go to the school on 01623 742609 or by email to info@st-josephs-pri.derbyshire.sch.uk.