St John With St Michael Nursery Review

Tree Tots and Little Oaks give the youngest children their own identity within St John With St Michael Church of England Primary School in Shawforth. Tree Tots caters for two-year-olds; Little Oaks brings nursery children and Reception together in one class. This is early education within a primary school, with a Christian character that reaches into stories and relationships.

Togetherness has concrete examples here. Little Oaks children explore Along came a different and Meesha makes friends, using stories to consider friendship and belonging. These are useful starting points for children learning to play alongside others and express their feelings.

Early reading starts with listening. Nursery children begin early phonics, with Read Write Inc. the school’s chosen reading programme. At the March 2023 inspection, children’s first steps involved recognising different sounds, and the early-years curriculum was judged to have a considered structure. That gives the youngest learners a starting point before more formal reading develops.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) combines creative, physical and social learning here. Children investigate tools and materials, make constructions and express ideas through dance, art and imaginative play. Musical activities include experimenting with simple instruments, singing and exploring rhythm. There is more to the day than practising sounds.

Outdoor learning has room to spread. In March 2023, early-years children cooperated in their indoor activities and in a substantial outdoor area. Their physical learning includes balance, coordination and exploring movement. Alongside this, children investigate their immediate surroundings and notice the features around them, connecting learning with the world they can see.

Feelings are part of early-years learning. Children practise talking about emotions, establishing reassuring routines and becoming more independent. Mindful Me is used daily across the school, with activities adapted to children’s ages. The school aims to help children develop confidence and manage their emotions through these routines.

In March 2023, early-years children felt happy and secure. Additional needs were recognised promptly, and classroom tasks were adjusted to help children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) participate alongside their peers. The school’s SEND process includes discussion with parents, agreement on support for the following term and a pupil passport. Families therefore have a role in planning support.

Half-termly curriculum updates for the nursery and Reception explain forthcoming learning and suggest ways to help at home. Lancashire County Council provides the school’s meals.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through Lancashire County Council’s online primary admissions route. The application period runs between September and January, with a closing date in the middle of January. Treat that application as a separate task, even when your child already attends nursery.

Little Oaks combines nursery and Reception in the same class. That shared class structure is relevant to familiarity with the next stage; it does not secure admission.

For nursery enquiries, contact the school office on 01706 852614 or email office@sjm.fa1.uk. Visits can be arranged by appointment through the office, giving families an opportunity to see the school’s daily life.

The school uniform combines a dark purple cardigan or jumper, a white polo and grey trousers, shorts, skirt or pinafore, with black shoes. A school logo is optional, and pre-loved uniform is held at school. This gives families alternatives when sourcing clothing.