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Nursery at Staghills Nursery School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Books, block play and a weekly Forest School session give Staghills its character. This Lancashire maintained nursery school serves children aged 2 to 5 on Top Barn Lane in Newchurch. Its provision includes Willow Classroom for two-year-olds and Hazel Class for children aged 3 to 4.
The emphasis is on children learning through exploration, with adults helping them develop language, confidence and independence. Qualified teachers and teaching assistants make up the teaching team. The nursery school is distinct from the separately registered Early Years Centre on the same site.
Play supplies much of the day's learning. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together children's language, physical development, relationships, early reading and maths, creativity and understanding of their surroundings. Staff observe children's interests during sessions and use those observations to decide how to extend their learning.
Daily group stories sit alongside books used during play and project work. Children discuss characters, repeat familiar phrases and practise telling stories themselves. Key Worker Time introduces new vocabulary, while Red Rose Phonics supports early phonics skills in groups matched to children's needs. A planned rhyme is shared with families, giving parents something specific to continue at home.
Maths is practical: blocks, sand and water provide opportunities to count, compare and talk about quantities. Children begin with numbers 0-5 and explore how a number can be split into smaller parts. Adults comment on children's play and ask questions to develop mathematical language.
Outside, a designated Forest School area sits within the nursery grounds. All children have a session each week, supported by a member of staff with a Level 3 Forest School qualification. Exploring through their senses and learning to assess risks make outdoor activity part of the curriculum.
In December 2024, teaching generally supported children's learning, but some lessons needed to revisit key ideas more consistently. That matters: repetition helps children retain what they have learned.
Settling begins with a home visit from the key person and another staff member. The key person works with the family as the child settles and remains a familiar adult throughout their time here. That relationship gives children someone to turn to while they build confidence to play independently.
Regular newsletters share school information and children's learning. For children with SEND, staff assess strengths and next steps, then adapt learning so they can participate alongside their peers. In December 2024, children were comfortable seeking help from adults, and safeguarding arrangements were effective.
Lunch arrangements include packed lunches and charged hot meals. Families receive healthy lunch-box ideas when their child starts. Birthday sweets and cake are sent home rather than eaten at nursery, linking celebrations with advice about dental care.
Attendance. Frequent absence was an improvement concern in December 2024 because children missed learning. Attendance below 90% prompts a discussion with parents about difficulties or support, making regular attendance a shared responsibility.
Attending nursery does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline.
Preparation for primary school includes managing coats, sharing resources and taking turns. These everyday skills help children become more independent; they do not secure admission to their next school.
Morning sessions run from 8.30am to 11.30am, afternoons from 12.15pm to 3.15pm, and the 30-hour session from 8.30am to 2.30pm. Some flexible places are offered for three- and four-year-olds. Extended services span 7.45am to 5.30pm, with breakfast, lunch and later care options; some extensions depend on availability.
Funded places are offered in the autumn, spring and summer terms. Eligible two-year-olds can receive 15 hours from the term after their second birthday. From the term after turning three, children can receive 15 hours, with an additional 15 hours for eligible families. There are up to 50 places for the 30-hour offer.
Charged extras. Extended care and hot lunches carry charges. Contact the school for current charges; ending a paid extended service requires two weeks' written notice.
Enquiries go to reception@staghills.lancs.sch.uk or 01706 213303. Sweatshirts and polo shirts can be tried on at the office to check the fit.
The nursery school serves children aged 2 to 5. Willow Classroom is for two-year-olds, while Hazel Class is for children aged 3 to 4.
Morning sessions are 8.30am to 11.30am, afternoon sessions are 12.15pm to 3.15pm, and the 30-hour session is 8.30am to 2.30pm. Extended services span 7.45am to 5.30pm.
The key person and another staff member visit the child at home. The key person then works with the family during settling and remains a familiar adult throughout the child's nursery attendance.
Yes. All children access Forest School each week in a designated area within the nursery grounds, supported by a member of staff with a Level 3 Forest School qualification.
No. Reception admission is a separate process, and families must apply again through the normal admissions route by its deadline.
