St Roberts Catholic First School, Morpeth: Nursery Review

Storytelling, pretend shops and outdoor exploration give this nursery its character. Nursery provision forms part of St Roberts Catholic First School, Morpeth, on Oldgate, with a nursery class teacher within the wider early years team. Catholic education shapes the experience from the start: the Come and See programme includes Nursery, making faith part of the curriculum rather than an occasional addition.

Early years learning connects classroom activities with familiar experiences. Children count as they line up and match objects while putting things away; songs bring numbers into play too. Role play includes shops and post offices, giving children a practical setting in which to recognise numbers and use them during pretend transactions. For parents, these examples show how learning can happen through ordinary routines as well as a planned activity.

Stories provide another clear thread. In March 2025, children in early years enjoyed conversation and listening to Little Red Riding Hood. Language and early writing were developing effectively, with children creating brief retellings of stories they knew. The emphasis is on understanding and expressing ideas, alongside listening to other children.

Outdoor learning is an explicit early years priority. The school aims to encourage curiosity about nature and learning through the senses. Its outdoor forest space serves pupils across the age groups, giving this approach a physical setting beyond the classroom. Religious learning has its own named structure: Come and See explores themes including belonging, family and sharing.

Building on learning. In March 2025, some early years activities and adult guidance gave children too little opportunity to rehearse existing skills and extend their understanding. This matters alongside the positive language findings: learning through play needs purposeful support, and the improvement required concerned how consistently activities supplied that next step.

A nursery class teacher sits within a team that includes an early years lead and early years teaching assistants. Some of those assistants also have lunchtime supervision responsibilities. These roles connect teaching and supervision within the wider early years provision, although they should not be read as a staffing ratio for an individual session.

For families seeking support with special educational needs or disabilities, the school’s SEN coordinator can be contacted through the office by telephone or email. That gives parents a direct route to discuss their child’s needs. Safeguarding responsibilities include a designated lead and deputy leads, with families able to raise concerns by telephone or in person.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process. The local authority coordinates admissions on behalf of the trust. Keep the application separate from the nursery booking: choosing this provision should not be treated as securing the next school place.

The nursery is based at Oldgate, Morpeth, NE61 1QF. Enquiries go through the school office on 01670 512031 or by email to admin@stroberts.co.uk. School tours can be arranged through the office, giving families an opportunity to discuss the provision before deciding whether to apply.