St Giles Nursery, Matlock

St Giles aims to put kindness, compassion and perseverance into school life. Children can begin from age 3 within this Church of England primary and nursery school. The school describes a family atmosphere and aims to help children develop curiosity and confidence. This is nursery provision within a school community on Starkholmes Road in Matlock, with Christian values shaping its stated approach to learning and relationships.

St Giles aims to encourage children to think creatively and become more independent in their learning, alongside developing their social and emotional lives. For parents, those aims put growing confidence and relationships alongside learning.

The school team includes an Early Years Foundation Stage Lead.

For the September 2026 intake, preparation plans included transition visits during the preceding summer term and a meeting for new starters' parents. These were intended to help families become familiar with school before their children started.

Support for special educational needs and disabilities follows Assess, Plan, Do, Review: staff identify needs, agree provision, put it into practice and revisit progress. Parents and carers take part, with termly meetings to review support and agree outcomes. This gives families a recurring opportunity to discuss what their child needs rather than relying on a single initial conversation.

Physical access is also relevant. The school occupies a single level, with flat entry, an accessible toilet and a disabled parking bay. Its corridors are kept clear, and there is a large, level playground. These features matter for families managing mobility needs.

Medical needs may lead to an Individual Health Care Plan, prepared jointly by parents or carers, staff and the SENCo. Safeguarding concerns can be directed to the designated safeguarding team at safeguarding@st-giles-matlock.derbyshire.sch.uk.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process to Derbyshire Local Authority, by the normal deadline. Treat choosing the nursery and applying for school as separate decisions.

Visits and preparation serve a different purpose from allocation. For children starting in September 2026, planned arrangements included school tours with an opportunity to speak with the Early Years Lead or Head of School, summer transition visits and a parent meeting. Familiarity can help with preparing for school; it does not secure admission.

The school office is the enquiry route: telephone 01629 56813 or email enquiries@st-giles-matlock.derbyshire.sch.uk. School visits can be arranged by appointment, providing an opportunity to meet the team and see the setting.

For SEND discussions, families can arrange an appointment through the school or contact senco@matlockanddales.derbyshire.sch.uk. Keeping learning, medical and access needs in the same conversation helps parents explain the practical support their child requires.