St Margaret Clitherows RC Primary School Nursery

Conversation and growing independence give this nursery its character. For three- and four-year-olds at St Margaret Clitherows RC Primary School in South Bank, learning centres on developing language and becoming comfortable with other children and everyday routines.

Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Outstanding at its inspection on 24 and 25 September 2024. That judgement covers early years within the school; it is not a separate nursery rating.

Two sessions shape the nursery day: mornings run from 8:45am to 11:45am, while afternoons run from 12:15pm to 3:15pm. Each provides a defined block of learning, with a separate collection time for families to plan around.

Within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), communication and children's social and emotional development take precedence. In parent terms, the emphasis is on helping children express themselves, develop independence and learn alongside others. In September 2024, indoor and outdoor activities were carefully planned to develop these skills, and adults used opportunities throughout learning to help children take their understanding further.

Concentration matters here too. One child persisted with a scissors task during the September 2024 inspection, a small but telling example of learning to keep trying. Established routines supported children's participation from early years onwards.

Understanding the surrounding world also begins in EYFS, with children exploring their community and physical surroundings. Catholic religious education uses Come and See across the Foundation stage, introducing Christ's teaching through scripture and worship. Faith is part of the learning context.

Well-trained adults extended children's learning in September 2024, while routines became familiar quickly. Together, these give children a framework for participating and becoming more independent, rather than leaving confidence to develop by chance.

For children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), the school's support can include extra adult help, interventions or additional resources. External agencies may also be involved where needed. These are possible responses to individual needs, rather than a fixed package for every child.

Families can speak with class teachers or other staff about concerns. That gives parents a direct starting point for a conversation about their child.

A separate application. Attending this nursery does not guarantee a Reception place at St Margaret Clitherows. Families must apply again through Redcar and Cleveland Local Authority using its Common Application Form, by the authority's closing date.

Parents applying to this Catholic school should also complete a Supplementary Information Form. If applications exceed places, its information helps determine the category in which an application is considered; failing to provide it could affect that category. Nursery attendance should therefore never be treated as a substitute for completing the Reception application.

The morning and afternoon sessions have different start and finish times, so collection arrangements need to match the nursery session rather than the compulsory school day.

For enquiries, telephone the school on 01642 835370. Families and their children are welcome to visit the school, giving them an opportunity to see the setting before choosing it.