St Stephen's Catholic Primary School and Nursery: Nursery Review

Shared early years space gives this nursery its defining character: children learn alongside Reception children within St Stephen's Catholic Primary School and Nursery in Skipton. The provision is for ages 3–4, with entry possible the day after a child's third birthday. It is part of a Catholic voluntary academy, rather than a separate nursery.

Faith shapes the school's values, while families of any faith or none are welcome to apply. For parents, the shared Early Years Unit offers familiarity with the next stage of school life. Admissions remain a separate matter.

Play drives the nursery's approach. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guides planning, recognising that children's learning develops at different speeds through play. Painting, drawing, stories, construction with blocks and searching for bugs give children different ways to explore. Indoor learning spaces and an outdoor area support that mix; messy activities and outdoor climbing are part of nursery life.

There is a practical emphasis on independence, too. Clothing that children can manage themselves supports learning to dress and undress. The nursery aims to build confidence, social skills and a willingness to try again after mistakes. Photographs and observations become part of each child's Learning Journey on Tapestry, helping parents understand learning that does not produce something to bring home.

The learning picture needs careful consideration. In February 2026, Ofsted judged early years Needs attention. Nursery learning focused on the prime areas of development, and staff used conversations to develop language and encourage further thinking. However, the curriculum did not define learning precisely enough or specify its timing. Adults were inconsistent in demonstrating activities, so some planned learning was missed. Correction of mistakes, including letter and number formation, was sometimes too slow. These concerns make the sequence of learning and adult guidance important points for families to consider.

Children's comfort was a strength in February 2026: early years children were settled and happy, shared materials and worked cooperatively. The nursery staff work as an integrated team. Daily contact is practical: nursery children use the Nursery door for both drop-off and collection, giving parents regular opportunities to speak with staff. Tapestry and email also keep families connected.

Lunch brings a choice of a school meal or food brought from home. Meals are cooked on site, with jacket potatoes and sandwiches available as alternatives to the planned dish; children choose on the day rather than ordering ahead. Nursery children under 5 are offered 1/3 pint of milk daily through the Nursery Milk Scheme, supplied through Cool Milk.

Allergies require details on the child's information form and a meeting with staff to agree their management. Food containing eggs or nuts must stay out of school. After sickness or diarrhoea, children must wait until 48 hours have passed since the final episode before returning. The nursery aims to include children whatever their additional needs.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through the normal school admissions route and meet the deadline for their entry year. The route is North Yorkshire's online Common Preference Form, with a Supplementary Information Form sent to school. For September 2026 entry, the closing date was 15 January 2026; that cycle is now past.

Sharing the Early Years Unit with Reception children provides continuity of surroundings and company. That everyday familiarity is separate from the allocation of a school place.

Bookings can combine mornings, afternoons and full days, subject to availability. Morning sessions run from 8.30 to 11.30; afternoons run from 12.30 to 15.30. Lunch supervision occupies the intervening hour and is charged separately: funded hours cannot cover it.

Universal funding provides 15 hours weekly over 38 weeks, delivered during school terms, starting the term after the third birthday. Eligible families can receive 30 hours; their code must be renewed every 3 months, otherwise sessions beyond 15 hours become payable. Contact the school for current charges.

For a nursery visit, book by emailing admin@st-stephens.n-yorks.sch.uk or calling 01756 709451. Clothing should be comfortable and washable, with a white top, red jumper or cardigan and grey or black bottoms among the requested options. Pack covered-toe shoes, wellies, a waterproof coat and a named spare outfit for outdoor and messy play.