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Nursery at St Philip's Catholic Primary 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 If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Early communication gets a concrete starting point here: children in the early years have speech and language screening through WellComm, alongside observations of how they interact with adults and other children. That gives staff a basis for adapting support to the child.
St Philip's has its own nursery class within the Catholic primary school on Messenger Road, Smethwick. The school aims for Catholic faith to shape education throughout school life, making its religious character a consideration for families choosing the nursery.
Interactions in the classroom help staff establish each child's starting point. Adults observe children with their peers as well as in exchanges with staff, and identified needs inform changes to provision. WellComm adds a specific check on speech, language and communication development; support can also involve the Speech and Language Enhancement Team.
Across the school, visual timetables and Widgit symbols help children understand information and routines. These give children another way to make sense of the day alongside spoken explanations. A calm space can be used where children need help regulating sensory responses. These are school support arrangements, rather than a separate description of nursery facilities.
Before children join the early years, a parent consultation gives families time to discuss development and raise concerns. Staff also seek information from a previous nursery or Children's Centre where a child has attended one. This helps planning begin with what families and previous carers already know.
For concerns about learning, the class teacher is the first contact. The next steps can include discussion with the SENDCo, further assessment and advice from an external professional. Parents participate throughout that process, rather than simply receiving a decision at the end.
Some children with additional needs have an Individual Provision Plan, with targets and support reviewed each term. Parents are encouraged to contribute to those reviews, and can request meetings during the year. Termly parent consultations provide another opportunity to discuss progress, with the SENDCo attending where needed.
Nursery attendance neither guarantees a Reception place nor gives admissions priority. A separate application is required, and children already in nursery are considered against the same criteria as other applicants.
For September 2027 entry, apply through the local authority where you live by 15 January 2027, naming St Philip's. A Supplementary Information Form must also reach the school by that date. Keep both steps in the application plan.
For children with SEND, the school's Transition Pathways arrangements include visits before a change of year group or setting, early sharing of records, and a transition book or poster to use at home. Preparation for the next classroom remains separate from securing a place.
Nursery enquiries go through the school office: office_phi@emmausmac.com or 0121 558 1643. The address is Messenger Road, Smethwick, B66 3DU.
No. It gives neither a guarantee nor admissions priority. Parents must make a separate Reception application.
Apply through your home local authority by 15 January 2027 and name St Philip's. Return the Supplementary Information Form directly to the school by the same date.
Early-years children have WellComm screening alongside classroom observations and interactions. Identified needs inform adaptations to support.
Yes. A consultation before joining the early years allows parents to share information and discuss concerns about development.
Contact the school office at office_phi@emmausmac.com or call 0121 558 1643.
